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BY MIKE MCCURRY
MR. MCCURRY: Many questions probably, but nothing more\ to say.
Q Has the President talked to O'Grady?
MR. MCCURRY: Not yet, Helen. Our understanding is that Captain O'Grady is still resting, and a well-deserved rest that it is. My guess is that he'll talk to the President at some appropriate time later in the day.
Q Has he been debriefed at all? Has the President gotten any reports on all of the mission?
MR. MCCURRY: We will as it's available, but I'd prefer to have the Pentagon talk about that for operational reasons. They should be in the best position to provide information at the proper time.
Q Did the President at any point make a decision to send this rescue mission in, or was he just kept apprised of the developments? Did he say yes or no at some point?
MR. MCCURRY: Well, he was fully briefed by General Shalikashvili and others about the parameters of any possible rescue mission. This is going back several days. He had a very good idea as Commander in Chief how his forces in the region would respond if there was successful work done on search and rescue. And as that was underway, they were reviewing plans on how they would proceed. So the President was very comfortable with the plans, was apprised several times when it looked like they would be in a position to possibly undertake some activity, and had several opportunities along the way to --
Q Did he have to give a --
MR. MCCURRY: He was not -- the way the missions were structured since time would be of the essence, the President didn't need to give a go or no go, but he was apprised the minute the mission was underway, and obviously could have taken action if he felt it was not warranted. But to the contrary, I think the President, as he indicated earlier, felt that the judgments of the commanders were correct, and they went ahead even though there were certain risks associated. The President has spoken publicly about that, as you know.
Q Are those patrols continuing?
MR. MCCURRY: The deny flight patrols? They have been flying sorties over Bosnia or in and around Bosnia, I understand.
Q Since the incident?
MR. MCCURRY: Yes. I believe the Pentagon has indicated that.
Q There were conflicting reports whether the pilot was alive or not from previous days. When did the White House really know that he was alive and emitting signals?
MR. MCCURRY: I think with a higher percent certainty that Captain O'Grady was alive was probably not confirmed to our satisfaction until last evening. But there were indications during the day on Tuesday that were encouraging.
Q Mike, Senator Kerry was outside, suggesting that retaliation would be appropriate in the form of taking out SAM missile sites. I know you probably don't want to telegraph anything, but have the Bosnian Serbs heard the last of this?
MR. MCCURRY: Well, U.S. senators are free to speculate on military action, but White House spokespeople are not.
Q Well, have the Bosnian Serbs heard the last of it?
MR. MCCURRY: I'm not going to answer that question.
Q Mike, is there any thought to having the United States Marines who rescued this Captain to the White House for any kind of ceremony?
MR. MCCURRY: Look, our first and most urgent concern are to allow Captain O'Grady to get some rest. He deserves it. Our second priority is to get him back to his family. I think his family is very anxious to see Captain O'Grady, and the President certainly thinks those are the right priorities. The President is very grateful to the splendid work done by the U.S. Marine Corps, to all of our services, their well-coordinated activity here, good coordination and support from our NATO allies on this U.S. mission. And I think there will be plenty of time for all those who are involved to be properly honored for their good work.
Q In addition to the radio signals, didn't the other plane, or the wing -- I don't know exactly how they -- the formation, there was another plane in the area -- did they see the pilot eject?
MR. MCCURRY: That's a detail of the mission that I would really refer to the Pentagon. I haven't heard anything in any of the briefings I've seen the Pentagon do that indicates that that's the case. But that really is a better question to direct over there, and they've got some folks who have been briefing today, as you know.
Q At any time during the six-day period was there ever a sense that the Bosnian Serbs were cooperating in any way or being helpful?
MR. MCCURRY: There was never a sense in which the Bosnian Serbs were providing information that we consider reliable as to the fate of Captain O'Grady.
Q Would you say that's deliberate?
MR. MCCURRY: I would say that it's consistent with their thoroughly outrageous behavior during the conflict in Bosnia.
Q But were there trying to find him, too? Was there any sign of that?
MR. MCCURRY: I think there's ample evidence that they were interested in finding him, too.
Q Mike, did Captain O'Grady ever seen any Serbs in the six days that --
MR. MCCURRY: I will refer to the Pentagon on that. They'll be in the best position to provide information on what Captain O'Grady has said during his debrief.
Q Some people, in looking back on a mission like this, were thinking, unfortunately, of a failed mission back in 1979 by President Carter. And did that concern ever come up or did the President ever voice the concern that a rescue mission could fall apart?
MR. MCCURRY: The Commander in Chief asked appropriate questions as to the nature of the threat that would exist, how they would work to suppress that threat and how they would configure the missions. But I think he gave a lot of latitude to the military commanders who know best what would be required in the circumstances involving a rescue. But the President was satisfied that they would undertake the missions and do it appropriately structured to maximize the chance for success. And that's the best you can do.
Q Mike, might we take it from what you have said that from the start that it was assumed that a rescue would be attempted if he could be found, and that it never required an order or no order release was ever given by the President to go in and try to find him?
MR. MCCURRY: It was assumed from the beginning that if U.S. forces were in a position to conduct a rescue, that they should do so. And the President gave his indication that he would certainly want and expect them to proceed, understanding that there would be risk entailed in such a mission, but that the risk, if it was judged by the commanders to be an appropriate risk, is one that was acceptable in his view.
I think the commanders understood that they were proceeding with their planning and with the full support of the Commander in Chief. And I think the President is delighted with the way they planned and successfully supervised the mission.
Q Mike, this guy was flying on behalf of NATO. From the point he went down, did it then become an American problem to try and get him out, or was this a NATO effort? It sounds like everybody's pretty much talking about just an American chain of command.
MR. MCCURRY: We appreciate very much the support we've had from our NATO allies on various aspects of the operation in Bosnia, but I think it's significant that the President last night addressed his note of congratulations to General Joulwan in his capacity as commander in chief of the European Command.
Q Was this a combined effort to find him, or simply a --
MR. MCCURRY: This was a U.S. --
Q -- a U.S. effort? And was that a deliberate decision, or is that the way it is structured?
MR. MCCURRY: This is a U.S. mission undertaken by the U.S. to rescue one of our --
Q Is there some reason why it was a U.S. mission and not a NATO mission?
MR. MCCURRY: It just was the judgment of the Commander in Chief that this was the best way to proceed, and also consistent with the recommendations of military commanders in the theater, most of whom, as you know, wear dual hats.
Q Other jets have gone down. Do we have a regular role in rescuing any NATO pilot, or did we take this on simply because it was our boy?
MR. MCCURRY: We have certain capacities under NATO that would be available and have been available, and as you know, we have some contingencies available for emergency extractions as they exist now, consistent with the President's policy.
Q Weren't there some NATO planes that were used in this recovery?
MR. MCCURRY: There may very well be. I'd really defer -- they may have had some coordinated effort, particularly in the air, and I think it would be more appropriate for folks in Naples to brief on that. Lieutenant General Mike Ryan, who is the air commander for NATO European Command was the overall coordinator of the search and rescue mission, and he obviously is also very closely linked to our NATO allies.
Q You said there was ample evidence that the Serbs were trying to find them. What evidence?
MR. MCCURRY: Well, among other things, the television pictures many of you have seen -- they clearly have a number of people out looking for them and were displaying evidence about the crash site.
Q Was this a case where the pilot tried to elude potential captors and get away from populated areas, and is that the reason why he waited, in effect, five days to give location signals?
MR. MCCURRY: Leo, I'm sure it is going to be an outstandingly fascinating tale, but it really is Captain O'Grady's to tell, and it's really up to those who are conducting the debrief with him to appropriately tell that story. I don't have any details that would suggest the answer to that question one way or another, but I am certain they will want to provide them at the appropriate time.
Q Just for clarification -- you said it was significant that General Joulwan directed the undertaking. Isn't he a NATO commander?
MR. MCCURRY: He wears a dual hat. He is CINCEUR, Commander of the European Command, and also SACCEUR of the Supreme Allied Commander for NATO.
Q Does that tell -- then why is it significant?
MR. MCCURRY: Because he was -- the President directed the message to him in his capacity as Commander in Chief of the European Command, i.e., wearing his U.S. hat because it was a U.S. operation.
Q Directed what to him to do what?
MR. MCCURRY: -- that was done last night.
Q So, in other words, it was done in that role. Well, is there something we are missing here? I mean, did somebody decide along the way that this was to be U.S. only and who did that and --
MR. MCCURRY: No, no, no.
Q You said that that was a way the Commander in Chief wanted it to be done. Are you talking about the Commander in Chief, Europe or what?
MR. MCCURRY: We have a lot of -- I mean, there is very good and very sophisticated integrated planning within NATO so that they can undertake missions specifically in Bosnia, and then they do general planning of that nature all the time. And there is coordinated activity with the allies when it comes to missions of this nature. But the United States undertook this one, and they undertook it quickly and at the recommendation of the commanders who structured the mission.
Q Are you looking at this as an example of future rescue missions that could be undertaken under the parameters of the President has been talking about in general?
MR. MCCURRY: I wouldn't want to suggest that because obviously we would hope there wouldn't be a need for rescues of this nature in the future.
Q But this has been described? I mean, this is one of the ways that U.S. troops could be used specifically in emergency rescue operations.
MR. MCCURRY: Look, each and every mission has to -- acquires its own specifics and its own structure and this might be a useful model. It might provide information that is useful to those who would have to plan any such missions, but it wouldn't be right to speculate on the type of missions that might be undertaken in the future. I believe Secretary Perry has indicated well, this is -- it demonstrates a capacity to go in, do a job quickly and get out quickly. But that, I think, is fairly obvious.
Q Mike, this is a crass commercial question, but what are the rules if the Captain decides to write a book or entertains movie rights? Serious -- I mean this is obviously going to come up.
MR. MCCURRY: You know, I don't know the answer to that. I know that there are restrictions -- my own experience at the State Department, there are some restrictions on your ability to use classified materials or information that relates to an ongoing operation. But I really don't think we need to speculate on that at this moment.
Q This is another way of asking Jill's question, but is this one of the things the President means when he says there are some roles the U.S. is uniquely suited for?
MR. MCCURRY: Well, it is -- I think it pretty clearly demonstrates that we have a capacity to do some incredible things, but it also demonstrates that there are integrated capabilities within NATO. And certainly, in search and rescue, the United States has some of the most sophisticated equipment and expertise. That clearly was demonstrated last night, early this morning.
Q Can you draw from that an inference that because of our unique abilities in this area, that would be why it was a unilateral U.S. --
MR. MCCURRY: No, I think it just -- I mean, I would really prefer to put that question in the province of those who directed and structured the mission. They know best why they structured it this way as the fact that that is the way it was put together. And I think that they are in the best position to explain really how they structured the mission that way.
Q If I could follow that with another question -- from this podium, you never did give much credence -- any credence -- to the Bosnian claims or the Serb claims that they had captured him. Were there indications as early as Monday that they were lying then? Because you say it wasn't until Tuesday you began getting some sign that Captain O'Grady --
MR. MCCURRY: No, I believe what I said here throughout this period is that there was nothing upon which we would feel comfortable saying we had information that we could share with the public that was -- or we were 100 percent certain about. And that applied certainly to some of the conflicting statements that were made by General Mladic as to the suggestion that they had access to Captain O'Grady and that they were holding him captive.
There wasn't a lot about those statements that we believed at the time, based on what we knew. But on the other hand, what we -- consistent with what I was telling you, we didn't have enough to know for certain ourselves what his fate was at that point. So we couldn't -- we could discount it, but we had to work under the assumption that a variety of things might be true.
Q Mike, can we change the subject here?
Q Before you do that, why do you think General Mladic was making up those stories?
MR. MCCURRY: It's anybody's guess --
Q Horrible. (Laughter.)
MR. MCCURRY: -- but is consistent with his behavior and consistent with his conduct as an alleged military officer.
Q Ohhhh.
Q Mike, you said that the President in the briefings leading up to the rescue mission was given various risk assessments -- how hazardous the mission might be, and so on.
MR. MCCURRY: I wouldn't -- I want to correct that. I don't know that implies something formal. I think he had general discussions with the commanders about the nature of the risk. I don't know if there was specific assessment levels.
Q My question goes to what the President knew before the rescue mission in terms of a risk. Was he told, for instance, that while there were obvious risks, they were not very, very high because the pilot was in an isolated area?
MR. MCCURRY: He was told a considerable amount about the nature of the risk. In fact, as he spoke publicly just a short while ago, he indicated one aspect of that, which was the concern that with daylight the mission might become riskier. And he indicated that -- his own feeling and the feeling certainly of the commanders that that was a risk worth accepting, given the nature of the mission. But there were other aspects like that. I'm not going to get into all of the calculations, but certainly generally he understood what the risk would be like. And there was some considerable risk.
Q Mike, was it the President's decision to make this a U.S. operation or was it a commander's decision?
MR. MCCURRY: I think it was a recommendation that was quickly accepted by the Commander in Chief.
Q -- to pass a resolution to lift the arms embargo. I know they've done this sort of thing before, but is the administration concerned that this whole incident will increase pressure on Congress to do something like that? And what's your reaction to that?
MR. MCCURRY: I don't want to suggest that the successful rescue of this pilot has any policy implications. I mean, our concerns about lifting the arms embargo are exactly those that we have stated in the past. And they are unchanged as a result of today's incident.
Our concerns are that lifting the arms embargo in effect Americanizes this war because it would have to be done unilaterally. It would require the United States unilaterally to train and equip the Muslims or to give that responsibility presumably to some third party, which might be an unsavory third party. If we took on that responsibility ourselves, which it would be hard to see how you wouldn't morally be compelled to take on that responsibility, telling them that they can now have a fair fight, and then not giving them the equipment necessary to have that fair fight, then not holding the Bosnian Serbs at bay while they were trained and equip so they could have a fair fight would seem to be a fairly repugnant thing to do.
Now, if you proceed on that assumption, and I would think that well-intentioned members of Congress would proceed on that assumption, the United State, a, incurs heavy, heavy financial costs. The U.S. taxpayer incurs heavy financial costs as they equip up the Bosnia Muslims. We also presumably have got a resource requirement to put a lot of trainers and those to protect trainers on the ground in Bosnia so that they can carry out the mission. And we've got a very significant air power calculation with the risk that we've seen very dramatically indicated in recent days as we fly air sorties over Bosnia to presumably bomb Bosnian Serb targets and keep them at bay. That, it seems to me, is a pretty complicated piece of business. And I assume those who are advocating this approach in the Congress are being forthcoming with all of you in explaining how they would do all these things.
Q The President, he approved the policy that General Shali announced yesterday, that if the reaction -- what do they call it --
Q Ready reaction force --
Q -- ready reaction force isn't able to the do the job that they're supposed to do that there will be a pullout in the fall?
MR. MCCURRY: The questions and answers that were delivered by General Shalikashvili and Secretary Perry yesterday went pretty much along the lines that we had anticipated and that had been thoroughly reviewed here at the White House prior to the testimony.
Q Does the President have any plan to have a telephone conversation with Captain O'Grady?
MR. MCCURRY: We've suggested that might happen, but we don't have any guarantee that that's going to happen.
Q Mike are all of the hostages out now, or are some still being held?
MR. MCCURRY: I believe there are just under 150 U.N. personnel that are still being detained in some fashion by the Bosnian Serbs. In some cases, their movements are restricted; in other cases, they're actually being detained in specific compounds.
Q Mike, could the President veto a bill lifting an arts embargo?
MR. MCCURRY: A bill -- it depends on in what fashion it came to him. The current amendment is coming to him on a bill that for other reasons we've indicated we might likely veto.
Q Could you say what the President was saying on the South Lawn today about Captain O'Grady? He seemed to be saying that Captain O'Grady's training helped make his case for activist government. Is that what he had to say?
MR. MCCURRY: I think that's a bit of a stretch.
Q Well, wait a minute. It was the President doing the stretching.
MR. MCCURRY: The question --
Q No, that's precisely what he said.
Q He cited O'Grady and his training as an example of the kind of thing he said illustrates what government needs to be able to do --
MR. MCCURRY: I think the President's general point is that the effective conduct of this mission, the kind of training that went into it, the kind of expertise and skill and courage shown by Captain O'Grady is something that we need a lot more of in government. I think that's a well-taken point.
Q Well, does he detect that someone in the Republican ranks up there trying to cut the Pentagon training budget to balance the budget?
MR. MCCURRY: I don't believe that's the point he was addressing. I think he was making a general point about the type of thing that --
Q I asked. How about that for getting an answer?
MR. MCCURRY: I'll check into it.
Q Mike, he made an analogy though. He said, his personal responsibility and bravery, coupled with the best training in the world that he got, and then he said it matters if all of you get proper training. I mean, he seemed to definitely be making the analogy that John has suggested.
MR. MCCURRY: I think he was suggesting that good training and good backup and good support from management and having the resources available is something that can make the conduct of the government more efficient and effective. That's, in fact, exactly what we've been trying to do with reinventing government. (Laughter.)
Q That's a stretch, too.
MR. MCCURRY: I think that answer, the elasticity of that answer matched the elasticity of the question.
Q Reno today said they would file a brief in the Colorado gay rights case. There had been discussions going on here at the White House on that issue as well. How involved did the White House ultimately get in that decision?
MR. MCCURRY: Well, it was the Attorney General's decision based on her reasoning, her examination of the law and the President understands her reasoning and her thinking, and is fully supportive of her determination that they should not file in this case.
Q Did the President actually play a role in any of the discussions? Was he briefed on this issue? Did he have any say on --
MR. MCCURRY: Well, he was aware of it. It's a very prominent case and was aware of the case. I think he generally was aware of some of the issues involved with the discretion that the Justice Department would have to file an amicus brief, but in this case he awaited for the recommendation of the Attorney General prior to --
Q Isn't that a reversal? That's a reversal --
Q -- nobody in the White House weighed in?
MR. MCCURRY: No, he has spoken against the Connecticut referendum itself, and has very strong feelings -- I mean, sorry, the Colorado referendum -- and has strong feelings on it, as you know; he's addressed that publicly.
Q He continues his opposition ?
MR. MCCURRY: Oh, absolutely. Absolutely. But that's not the matter that was addressed by the Attorney General in looking at whether or not you file an amicus brief. That's a very separate set of issues, and in this case, there was no underlying federal question arising from a federal statute which was, as the Attorney General indicated, a fairly significant point.
Q So nobody in the White House had weighed in at any level with Justice?
MR. MCCURRY: I didn't say that. I didn't say that.
Q Well, could you sort of elaborate then on --
MR. MCCURRY: Well, as there often are in these matters, there's discussions back and forth.
Q Is it fair to say that if he objected to this decision would not have been made?
MR. MCCURRY: That's not necessarily fair to say. I mean, if he had made his views clear to the Attorney General one way or another, as is sometimes the case, that might have had some impact on the thinking, but I am not aware that he did that.
Q Well, Mike, the rationale that is being given here is that this was not a federal case, that this did not involve federal laws. However, this does deal with an issue that is coming up all across the nation in a number of states and a number of cities and it does have some national impact. Why then is it not appropriate for the federal government to step in and file a brief?
MR. MCCURRY: Well, for all the reasons that the Attorney General indicated today.
Q Mike, can I just ask this question? President Li of Taiwan is either in or about to come into the United States. Does the Clinton administration have any regrets about this decision given the very negative reaction coming from China?
MR. MCCURRY: The President is confident that this was the right decision. It honors a very cherished principle of democracy here in the United States which is freedom of association. In this case we're letting a individual travel to his alma mater. He is traveling in an unofficial capacity and in a private capacity. And that represents something that we value and cherish in this democracy.
Q So you won't be seeing him here?
MR. MCCURRY: There is no plan consistent with our policy. As we've articulated it often, there are no plans to have any contact at that level because that would run contrary to our policy.
Q Any official contact?
MR. MCCURRY: No, he's not having any official contact because he is on an unofficial private visit.
Q It's not only at that level, it's at all levels. Correct?
MR. MCCURRY: On this visit, that's correct.
Q I mean, I'm not sure if there is a fine nuance here. I just want to make sure -- is he not going to meet with any U.S. government official?
MR. MCCURRY: If I'm -- my understanding is he will not meet with any representatives of the United States government. I have heard that there are individual members of Congress that plan to see him at some point. I'm not sure what their arrangements are, but that would be outside the purview of the executive branch obviously.
Q Mike, is the White House troubled by the demonstration by Cuban exiles out in Lafayette Park, and is there any chance they might succeed in getting the administration to reverse its policy on the forced repatriation of Cuban refugees?
MR. MCCURRY: Well, we feel strongly about the direction that the President has articulated in our policy. It has been working. It has made a difference and it will provide for safe, legal and orderly migration from Cuba. And we are aware that there are those who dissent from that policy. We're also aware that even within the Cuban-American community, there are those who support it. But that's the right to demonstrate in Lafayette Park is one that is a fairly cherished right.
Q -- somebody from the White House spoke to them?
MR. MCCURRY: Yes.
Q Can you explain the action that the President took with the House action on the War Powers Act? Even though he officially opposes it, he did not technically -- I'm not quite sure exactly what is going on. Can you explain?
MR. MCCURRY: Well, they had a vote and dispensed with the amendment last night. And we -- our views on the War Powers Act, as are consistent with those of previous Presidents, previous administrations. We would like to see, in particular, elimination of the 60-day withdrawal period. We'd like to see modifications made in the War Powers Act. But at the same time, that doesn't change this President's determination to continue consulting with Congress.
I think he's made -- throughout the two and half years of his Presidency, President Clinton has made close consultation with Congress on matters that arise under the War Powers Act a matter of fact. And we do that type of coordinated consultations because the President understands the need of members of Congress to be fully apprised of decisions on the use of force. At the same time, he retains his constitutional authority, as the executive branch has often seen it, in matters related to the War Powers Act.
Q There is a report that the North Koreans are now demanding as much as a billion dollars in what you might call accessories for their power plants. Will the President make any more concessions to get them to live up to their agreement, or is he simply talking about implementing what they've already agreed to?
MR. MCCURRY: We have a structured, agreed framework that dates back to October 21st, last year, and there have been a variety of discussions between the DPRK and the United States on that agreed framework. They have been underway in Kuala Lumpur, as you know, and they've been fully discussed over at the State Department. So I don't know of any different posture than the one that's been indicated in many of the briefings that they've been given.
I do know that Ambassador Galucci and Assistant Secretary Lord will be going to Seoul to consult closely with the Republic of Korea. The President talked to President Kim last night, I think as you know, and had a good review of some of the issues underlying that discussion. And our view -- the central issue, is the role that the ROK would play as a participant in the organization providing the lightwater reactor technology to the North. And there have been no change in our view that that role ought to be central.
Q Nothing for them --
MR. MCCURRY: I am not aware of anything of that nature and they have briefed at great detail over at the State Department on it, so I'd check back through the briefings they've done. And I assume they'll continue to be talking about it.
Q Mike, back on the Colorado case just for a second. Just to be clear, are you telling us that the administration took no position one way or the other -- the White House took no position --the President -- one way or the other on the case and that you agree with the decision that the Attorney General has made?
MR. MCCURRY: I'm saying that the President understands the reasoning of the Attorney General as she articulated it today and he fully supports her reasoning and her determination that the government not file on this case.
Q Political question on that. Gay rights issues have dogged this administration from the beginning. You had problems with the gays in the military questions, with which the gay community was in an uproar over. You're have -- the gay community is again, at least in terms of current comments, seems to be angered by this recent decision. How do you deal with this constituency group that helped the President is 1992 with money and with votes, looking ahead to the reelection?
MR. MCCURRY: Well, there was a long question there, and I don't -- without accepting any of the premise of the question, I'll say, as we do with a variety of -- any group of Americans that are organized and seek the administration's viewpoints and talk to them. We try to help them understand the direction and thrust of our policy. And if I'm not mistaken there's a group of leaders from various gay organizations that will be here as early as next week sometime. So we continue to keep a close dialogue underway.
Q For what?
MR. MCCURRY: As they do from time to time, briefings on various aspects of administration's policy. We've done an awful lot that the gay community is rightfully pleased about, that range through, you know, combatting discrimination and making sure that gays are not denied access to certain opportunities within the federal government. And I -- you know, the opportunity to talk about that type of issue is something that the White House will take that opportunity.
Q Do you think that as Republicans are dealing with moral issues in a campaign way and also in Congress, that issues that deal with gay rights become political thorny for this administration?
MR. MCCURRY: I have no way of judging that. It depends on the issue. I don't think -- this is not a case that involved a lot of political judgments in the eyes of the Attorney General. She was looking at the law.
Q One more burning question from me. Did Tony actually join the President on the balcony for the smoke-in? What kind of cigars -- what kinds of cigars?
MR. MCCURRY: They were legal, if that's what you're question is. (Laughter.) They were most likely not done under the watchful eye of the First Lady, if that's your second question. And I think it was -- it's not the President's practice to smoke cigars, but I think on this occasion he thought that might be a very nice thing to do.
Q What time did this happen?
Q Did Lake, in fact, join him?
MR. MCCURRY: This would have been just after one in the morning.
Q Did Lake in fact join him?
MR. MCCURRY: Yes, he went over. They went -- I was telling some people earlier --
Q Who had the cigars?
MR. MCCURRY: -- when the President got the good news last night that Captain O'Grady had been rescued, he was not at that point of the Kearsarge. Mr. Lake, who had phoned him with that news -- Tony was monitoring the developments over here in the West Wing. He went over to the Residence because he needed -- the President was drafting his congratulatory message to General Joulwan. And Tony asked permission of the -- no, actually he didn't ask -- he said, "With or without permission, Mr. President, I'm going to smoke a cigar." And the President indicated that since he was doing likewise, that Tony should come on over to the Truman Balcony --
Q How long were they out there?
MR. MCCURRY: -- have a puff together.
Q Do you know how long they sat out there?
MR. MCCURRY: Not long, because Tony was busy getting other things -- he had to get the message out to General Joulwan and do some other things.
Q What kind of cigar -- Cuban cigar? (Laughter.)
MR. MCCURRY: I didn't ask. (Laughter.) I already indicated it was a legal, though somewhat frowned-upon, product.
Q In the Colorado case, you indicated the President agrees with Reno's view that there's no underlying federal issue. But obviously the lawyers for the gay rights people feel this is a federal issue or else they wouldn't be going to the Supreme Court. The President is a legal and constitutional scholar in his right. If you go back to the early civil rights movement, they were exactly these same debates and discussions as to whether what was happening in the South was a state issue or a federal issue. Isn't he taking a rather cramped view of federal enforcement of civil rights by saying there's no federal issue?
MR. MCCURRY: I haven't had an opportunity to review the constitutional issues with the President, so, I'm not in a position to answer that.
Q Is the President leaning toward outlining his balanced budget alternative all in one fell swoop rather than putting it out in dribs and drabs?
MR. MCCURRY: As he indicated the other night, he'll make that determination himself and make his intervention into this ongoing debate about the budget at a time that he feels is appropriate.
Q What does the President mean today and some earlier speeches this week when he talks about people who argue that all of the country's problems are cultural and not political and economic? I've not heard anybody say that. It sounds like he's saying people who aren't as aggressive as he is on -- who are more aggressive than he is on the budget deficit think somehow that the problems of the country are all cultural.
MR. MCCURRY: I'll think about the question and ask him.
Q Does the White House agree with the statement yesterday from Chairman Greenspan about the state of the economy?
MR. MCCURRY: I think we had a pretty good assessment of what our view of the long-range fundamentals of the economy are in the statement that two of the members of the CEA released last week when they looked at the unemployment numbers for May. I think we see prospects -- although we understand that we're into perhaps what some call the bumpy landing, we think we see some prospects for long-sustained growth with low rates of inflation. And the fundamentals are there and, you know, a lot of work that the President has been doing is aimed at making sure we protect those fundamentals so we can enjoy the kind of economic growth and rising incomes that have been one of the central focuses of his work as President.
Q This is the second day in a row that he's talked about Roger's drug problem in a speech. And I'm just wondering why he's started to do that?
MR. MCCURRY: I'll have to ask him. I don't know if there is any particular reason.
Q It wasn't clear to me in your answer earlier to Jill's question. Was a deliberate decision made by the White House not to push for the repeal of the War Powers Act?
MR. MCCURRY: Was a -- well, there is an amendment -- that's an issue that will be around for a long time. And we have worked closely with Congress to address concerns about the War Powers Act that we have. This was not necessarily the right vehicle or the right place to make that type of intervention, but it's surely an issue that will continue to be subject to dispute between the executive and legislative branch.
Q Well, would this administration advocate the repeal of the War Powers Act?
MR. MCCURRY: We have advocated and would advocate, as have every recent administration, modifications in the War Powers Act, particularly as it relates to the 60-day period.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Although they taste sweet food products that contain high fructose corn syrup should be avoided. The body processes the sugar in high-fructose corn syrup differently than it does old-fashioned cane or beet sugar, which in turn alters your body's natural ability to regulate appetite. High fructose corn syrup blocks the ability of a chemical called leptin, which is the way your fat tells your brain it's there. It's not so much the 150 calories in the soda pop-it's the fact at that same meal you will normally consume an extra hundred calories of food than you would have.
Contrary to what its name suggests, enriched flour is actually poor in nutrition because most of the grain's nutrients are destroyed in the refining process. The reason they enrich it is because they already stripped out anything that was nutritious, and they add a little bit back so it doesn't look so bad.
Found mainly in animal products, avoid saturated fats that are solid at room temperature, like lard. You can actually use this kind of material for furniture polish-lots of fun things-but don't put it in you.
To increase their shelf life, certain oils are hydrogenated. This process turns the oil into a solid at room temperature, but it also makes the oil unhealthy. This stuff is great because it doesn't go bad, but it's very bad for you. Avoid food products that contain hydrogenated oil, often labeled as trans fats.


Gabriel Soriano has been writing and performing music his entire life. At 34 years old, Gabriel has amassed over 12 years experience as a DJ/MC, and over 20 years experience as a musician. Beginning with piano at 4 years old, Gabriel went on to learn drums, guitar, and bass before high school. Having played with many bands, from marching band to hip-hop to metal, Gabriel has acquired a very wide range of knowledge about how to read a crowd and play off the audience. With a love for playing music also came a love for studying music, other bands, and other genres. Gabriel's taste in music is very eclectic, ranging from jazz, classic rock, reggae, classical and everything in between. His music collection reflects that, and is always up to date with the latest songs both in and out of the Top 40.
In his 8 years as a DJ/MC, Gabriel has worked hundreds of weddings, birthday parties, school dances, corporate events, house parties, etc… He doesn't just show up and play music, he acts as a "day-of-coordinator", making sure all of the little details are being taken care of so you can enjoy your special day. Professionalism is essential in this industry, and Gabriel adheres whole-heartedly to that notion. For every event, Gabriel will meet personally with the client to get all the bases covered, customize playlists and timelines for the event, and thoroughly organize all other vendors to make sure everyone is on the same page. Gabriel is always available to communicate with his clients and he will work hard to make sure your day is special and memorable for your friends, family, and loved ones.


text:
Sporting must prevent Achilles heel of conceding early against "favourites" Banbury - Kelly
Shaquille McDonald cracks a shot at goal. Picture by Andrew Maguire.
Tom Taylor, right, tussles for the ball with a Coalville Town player. Picture by Chris Jepson.
Ben Tyler 29th Jan, 2020 Updated: 30th Jan, 2020
BRENDAN Kelly says Banbury United will be favourites for Saturday's (3pm) clash at the Banbury Plant Hire Community Stadium on the back of Bromsgrove Sporting's 3-0 reverse at home to Coalville Town last weekend.
Luke Shaw's tenth-minute opener, a goal from Tom McGlinchey on the stroke of the hour-mark and a late effort from Kairo Mitchell compounded a dismal Saturday afternoon for the Rouslers in front of a crowd of 1,075 at the Victoria Ground.
The Bromsgrove manager believes his side were made to pay for failing to trouble their opponents at any stage in the defeat – their seventh in the Southern League Premier Central – and said: "It's not an excuse, but the injuries that we had did affect us on Saturday.
"We were missing the players that were out – the big players that we're reliant on – and that played a part in us not getting a foothold in the game.
"Credit to them though, they were better and did a job on us. Their game management was better and they've got more experience than us.
"But for us not to threaten at all, we assisted them in their win. We've played them twice already this season and they've been a lot closer before, so it's concerning that we couldn't cause them problems – it was a really disappointing day.
"Players can't have any excuses now about keeping their place in the team."
Saturday's loss was the second that the club have suffered in their last three league outings, with an early goal from Shaw – who followed in Timothy Berridge's initial shot that was parried by Platt – putting Bromsgrove on the backfoot straight away.
Greg Mills forced Saul Deeney into making a stop with the first real sight of goal for the hosts, while Shaw remained a threat down the other end when playing in Adam McGurk for an effort that was diverted wide.
The next goal arrived in the second half, again in Coalville's favour, when McGlinchey buried a low strike into the bottom corner.
A carbon copy of the visitors' second followed with eight minutes remaining when Mitchell stole possession inside Sporting's penalty area, before planting the ball in the far corner of Platt's net.
Kelly stated his desire to put an end to Sporting's Achilles heel of conceding early on in games after the latest occurrence, adding: "It's the part of our game that concerns me most.
"We did it on New Year's Day against Stourbridge, and more recently against Kings Langley, then we go and do it again. Maybe our concentration levels are not where they need to be.
"Against the good sides in this league we need to be solid and not switch off for ten or 15 minutes in games."
This weekend's opponents, managed by former Oxford United player Mike Ford, were 2-0 winners in the last meeting between the two clubs thanks to Jaanai Gordon's first-half double.
While the fortunes of both sides have differed since that Victoria Ground showdown back in August, with Bromsgrove top of the pile and the Puritans residing in ninth place, Kelly is adamant that their rivals will provide another huge test of his squad's promotion credentials.
"They popped us off the park with their passing," said Sporting's boss.
"They were very clever on the ball, we didn't perform well that day. It might mean everything going into Saturday, or it might mean nothing at all.
"We're both better teams with the players available to us compared to back then. It's always a tough place for teams to go, especially for us coming off the back of a defeat.
"They're certainly favourites after last time, so we need to provide a response to last weekend.
Kelly confirmed that the pressure on his injury-hit squad has been eased somewhat and will welcome back the likes of Leon Broadhurst and Jack Wilson, two players who made the bench last weekend, but refused to give up any further names in the risk of aiding Banbury's preparations.
Banbury United
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Sporting must prevent...


text:
Открытый чемпионат Уинстон-Сейлема 2011 — профессиональный теннисный турнир, впервые проводившийся в Уинстон-Сейлеме, США на хардовых кортах.

Турнир имеет категорию ATP 250 и входит в цикл турниров US Open Series.

Соревнования были проведены с 22 по 27 августа 2011 года.

US Open Series

К завершающей соревновательной неделе борьба за бонусные призовые выглядела следующим образом:

* — Золотым цветом выделены участники турнира.1 — Количество турниров серии, в которых данный участник достиг четвертьфинала и выше (ATP 250/500) или 1/8 финала и выше (ATP 1000)

Соревнования

Одиночный турнир

 Джон Изнер обыграл  Жюльена Беннето со счётом 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.
 Джон Изнер выигрывает свой 2й титул в сезоне и 3й за карьеру в основном туре асооциации.
 Жюльен Беннето уступает все свои пять финалов на соревнованиях основного тура ассоциации за карьеру.

Парный турнир

 Йонатан Эрлих /  Энди Рам обыграли  Кристофера Каса /  Александра Пейю со счётом 7-62, 6-4.
 Йонатан Эрлих выигрывает свой 2й титул в сезоне и 16й за карьеру на соревнованиях основного тура ассоциации.
 Энди Рам выигрывает свой 2й титул в сезоне и 18й за карьеру на соревнованиях основного тура ассоциации.

См. также
 Открытый чемпионат Уинстон-Сейлема
 Мировой Тур ATP 2011 года
 серия ATP 250
 US Open Series 2011

Ссылки
 Официальный сайт

США
Теннис
Август 2011 года
2011
Уинстон-Сейлем

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


We want our students to get involved both at MCHS and in the community. Many programs; academic or extra-curricular, will be posted here! Whether you're looking for an academic program during the school year or a summer job or internship, check here to see what programs we have heard about!
D.I.V.A.S. is a mentoring organization serving to empower young women facing adversity.
This year we are have a partnership with UNC Charlotte DIVAS which is a college organization that works with high school students hoping to teach, inspire and empower young women in the community. Any Female students who wish to participate in DIVAS after school mentoring group should contact Ms. Jones in the Counseling Office. Or, CLICK HERE go to their site directly to register to participate in the group.
This year marks the ninth year CMS has organized Study Abroad Information events for high school students.This year CMS will offer two Study Abroad Information Sessions.Both sessions will take place in the evening at the Herbert Spaugh Professional Development Center.The Study Abroad Information Sessions are available to all high school staff, parents, and students interested in receiving information on Study Abroad programs and scholarships for high school students. Rising 9th grade families and other middle school families interested in starting to explore study abroad opportunities in high school are also welcome to attend. Participants will have the opportunity to speak directly with representatives from a variety of agencies about program choices, available scholarships, and important fall and spring deadlines.
The first Study Abroad Information Session will take place Monday, October 2, 2017 from 6:00-7:00pm at the Herbert Spaugh Professional Development Center in the Auditorium.The second Study Abroad Information Session will be held on Monday, February 5, 2018 from 6:00-7:00pm in the same location.
Persons wishing to attend the event are asked to sign-up by completing the Study Abroad Information Session Form found at http://bit.ly/StudyAbroadSignUp no later than September 22, 2017. The link to the form can also be found on the event flyer.
Mallard Creek Student Services wants to celebrate you! Please bring acceptance letters for 2- and 4-year colleges, military service, jobs/internships and any other opportunities you have after high school. These letters will be posted on our Senior Wall of Fame outside of Student Services. We will be accepting letters all year so turn them in when you get them.


text:
Oscar 2012 Fashion Trends: Shiny, Red And White All Over
Rebecca Zamon— The Huffington Post Canada
02/26/2012 08:40am EST | Updated February 27, 2012
The spotlight was on Oscars' red carpet on Sunday night -- and we're lucky it didn't blind anyone. The annual Academy Awards might ostensibly be about the movies, but everyone knows that the fashion is what's truly being talked about, because that's what ends up trickling down to the rest of us.
As everyone attending proms and galas for the remainder of 2012 will be aware, it's all about the sequins for this year. From Octavia Davis' perfect starburst look to Rose Byrne's somber, one-shouldered sparkle, the shiny times don't seem to be coming to an end anytime soon.
Reds also spanned the spectrum, from Michelle William's coral Louis Vuitton with her signature vintage style to Ellie Kemper's rust-coloured gown that won accolades from Twitter followers and Kelly Osbourne alike.
On the other end of the colour was, well, nothing. Whites, so popular a couple of years back, have returned with a vengeance -- or at least, with a whole lot of sequins. Kelly Ripa accessorized her option with a thin black belt, while Rooney Mara let the sublime structure of her Givenchy speak for itself.
But if there was one thing that surprisingly wasn't shining, it was jewelry. Though the stars were wearing millions of dollars worth of stones, the effect was understated and delightful, and even incorporated into gowns, as in the case of Melissa McCarthy and Maya Rudolph.
Take a look at these four trends on the red carpet at the 2012 Oscars:
Oscar Dress Trends
Academy AwardsAcademy Awards Red Carpetacademy awards red carpet 2012oscar fashion trendsoscar fashion trends 2012


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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


011 + 421 + City Code + Local Number.
The Flex Plan Slovakia phone card gives you the best rate to call Slovakia from your home, office and cell phone without entering a PIN.
Our smart calling card Slovakia is convenient and affordable, unlike a typical calling card. It is a one-of-a-kind service that unifies all your long distance calling needs into ONE ACCOUNT. You'll never have to buy an Slovakia phone card to call the Slovak Republic again.
International Call Slovakia. Make cheap calls to Slovakia 24 hours a day from your cell phone or landline.


Buskers must be aware of their surroundings when performing in central Canterbury, says the city council.
The authority has drawn up guidance for performers as well as for businesses and members of the public who encounter problems with buskers.
It says that the council recognises that busking "is an important part of our district's cultural life [which] adds colour and vibrancy to our public places and provides enjoyment for residents, visitors and businesses".
But it urges buskers to consider how their performances will affect others going about their day.
"Take care not to obstruct highways or shop entrances and to allow plenty of space for people to walk past you," the guide warns.
The guide asks buskers not disrupt other acts using public spaces and even to notify nearby businesses about any impending performances.
Canterbury's most prominent street performing locations include Rose Square, The Longmarket, next to the former Nason's department store, The Buttermarket and outside Lloyd's Bank on the corner of the High Street and St Margaret's Street.
The council's guide also provides advice for itself, residents and businesses in tackling issues arising from busking.
It says: "If there is a busker in the vicinity of your place of work or residence and they are causing a disturbance, you are advised to make yourself known to them and calmly and politely explain the issue.
"In the majority of cases they may not be aware that they have caused you an issue and will want to resolve it quickly and amicably.
A discussion about busking will take place at the next meeting of the council's Canterbury Forum.
Labour group leader Cllr Alan Baldock has also asked members to discuss the issue of skateboarding on city streets.
The Canterbury Forum meets in St. Peter's Methodist Church Hall, St Peter's Street, at 7pm on Monday, November 19. The meeting is open to members of the public.
The council could solve the problem of buskers who blast out their music far too loud — simply ban the use of amplifiers!
Yes, many performers are far too loud. They should be required to perform at a volume which reaches the people immediately around them and cannot be heard halfway down the next street.


EBG Advisors prides itself on providing clients with access to the highest quality thought leaders in the fields of health care and the life sciences. Our network spans worldwide in order to deliver a full range of expertise and consulting services unrestrained by locality. In our drive to provide professional guidance on subjects relevant to our client's needs, we are always eager to hear from other specialists who have extensive experience in their respective fields.
If you would like to discuss partnering with us to provide added value and knowledge to EBG Advisors' offerings, please contact us. The medical industry is full of new discoveries and innovations, and we appreciate your help staying on the cutting edge.
EBG Advisors is affiliated with the law firm of Epstein Becker & Green, P.C., which has a health care and life sciences legal practice that is among the nation's largest.


text:
Understanding the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018
Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP
United Kingdom, USA April 23 2019
The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 (the Act) came into force on 20 March 2019 (the Enforcement Date) and amends the existing legislation contained within sections 8 and 10 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (the LTA 1985) by introducing new requirements which impose an ongoing "fitness for human habitation" obligation on landlords of residential properties. If these requirements are not met, then tenants have the right to bring a claim against the landlord for breach of contract.
The Act applies to all social and private sector landlords (or agents acting on their behalf), who must take steps to ensure that any rented property is fit for human habitation at the beginning, and throughout the duration of the tenancy period.
Prior to the enforcement of the Act, under the LTA 1985, landlords were only liable for repairing items that were actually in disrepair.For instance, a landlord would not have previously been obliged to repair inadequate ventilation that was not in disrepair, however this may now fall within the Act. Tenants can now take action in respect of problems and defects like mould, damp, fire risks and inadequate heating.
Who It Applies To?
The Act applies to a) any residential leases of less than 7 years created on or after the Enforcement Date (including a renewal of an existing tenancy on or after the Enforcement Date); b) any fixed term tenancy which becomes periodic on or after the Enforcement Date; and c) any existing periodic tenancies, however a 12-month grace period applies.
What Is "Fit for Human Habitation"?
Section 10 LTA 1985 did not explicitly define "fit for human habitation"; however, in determining whether a dwelling is fit for human habitation, regard should be given to the following matters:
repair, stability, freedom from damp, internal arrangement, natural lighting, ventilation, water supply, drainage and sanitary conveniences, facilities for preparation and cooking of food and for the disposal of waste water, in relation to a dwelling in England, any prescribed hazard; and
the house shall be regarded as unfit for human habitation if, and only if, it is so far defective in one or more of those matters that it is not reasonably suitable for occupation in that condition.
Although the Act does not require tenants to serve notice of a breach, it is likely that the landlord's liability under the Act will only arise once it has received notice of the tenant's complaint. However, this point will need to be clarified by the courts. There are various exceptions where the landlord won't be held liable, for example, a) any breach of the tenant's duty to act in a tenant like manner; b) any breach relating to works to rebuild or reinstate the dwelling in the case of destruction or damage by fire, storm, flood or other inevitable accident; c) any works to anything belonging to the tenant; d) any works, which if carried out, would put the landlord in breach of any obligation imposed by legislation; and e) any works requiring the consent of a superior landlord or other third party (e.g., a lender) where consent has not been obtained following reasonable endeavours to obtain it.
The parties are not able to contract out of the Act.
Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP - Kumar Tewari, Terry Green, Gavin Vollans and Joe Payne
FCA Publishes SAR and STOR Guidance *
Investigating the Investigators: Civil Claim Launched Against Private Investigators Alleging Espionage, Harassment *
FCA Updates SM&CR Webpage *
FSA bans and fines trader for unauthorized "pre-hedging" *
European Commission Grants Temporary Equivalence to UK CCPs *
Best practice to prevent workplace harassment
Related United Kingdom articles
The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 *
Fitness for Human Habitation - What does it mean? *
Is your property fit for humans? *
Mould in rental properties - tenant's rights and landlord's responsibilities * - Australia
The Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act * - USA
New Regulations for rented properties * - Ireland
How Yee Loh
Kuok Group
"Lexology is a good barometer of a firm's expertise as the articles showcase a firm's understanding of the issues involved and how up to date their knowledge is. It's a good one stop solution where one is able to view the same law/cases from different perspectives; on the whole I would rate Lexology as a good service."


A nod to the red, white and blue.
Something ruffled and pleated ... and wrinkled.
Despite my work outfit, I'm already mentally enjoying the weekend.
Breaking out the suit vest.
Thank you! They totally are - and comfy too!
The flamingo tee look is my fave Lisa!
Thank you! Yes, it's too fun!
Love the French chic vibe in your first look!


text:
Q: Algebraic elements in ordered integral domain The following is a question of abstract algebra which is expressed using a model theoretical language. (I'm sorry, I'm not sufficiently fluent in algebra.)

Let $N$ be an ordered integral domain, $M\subseteq N$ a subdomain, $b\in N$ algebraic over $M$, and $p(x) = {\rm qf\mbox{-}tp}(b/M)$.
Is $p(x)$ principal? That is, equivalent (over the theory of ordered integral domain and the diagram of $M$) to one of its finite subsets.

If you forget the order, $p(x)$ is equivalent to the formula $t(x)=0$ where $t(x)$ is the minimal polynomial over $M$ that has a zero in $b$. I guess that now the required formula has the form $t(x)=0\wedge a<x<c$ for some $a,c\in M$. But I cannot prove it.

A: Yes. I think the easiest way to show this is to use the model theory of real closed fields. For the purposes of this answer, let's view the theory of real-closed fields ($\text{RCF}$) as a theory in the language of ordered integral domains. The key facts are that (1) $\text{RCF}$ has quantifier elimination in this language (actually, model-completeness is enough), and (2) every ordered integral domain extends to a model of $\text{RCF}$ (e.g. its real closure).
So let $R$ be a real closure of $N$. Since $p(x)$ contains some non-zero polynomial equation, it has only finitely many realizations in $R$, i.e. it is a model-theoretically algebraic type. An algebraic type is always isolated relative to a complete theory, so there is some formula $\varphi(x)\in p(x)$ such that $\varphi(x)$ implies all of $p(x)$ relative to $\text{RCF}_M = \text{RCF}\cup \text{ElDiag}(M)$ (this is the complete theory of $R$ in the language with constants naming every element of $M$).
Now we want to strengthen this to show that $\varphi(x)$ implies all of $p(x)$ relative to the incomplete theory $\text{OD}\cup \text{Diag}(M)$ of ordered integral domains together with the diagram of $M$.
So suppose we have $M'\models \text{OD}\cup \text{Diag}(M)$ and $b'\in M'$, such that $M'\models \varphi(b')$. Let $R'$ be a real closure of $M'$. Then $R'\models \text{RCF}\cup \text{Diag}(M)$, and since $\text{RCF}$ has quantifier elimination, the ordinary diagram $\text{Diag}(M)$ implies the elementary diagram $\text{ElDiag}(M)$ relative to $\text{RCF}$, so $R'\models \text{RCF}_M$. Since $\varphi(x)$ is quantifier-free, also $R'\models \varphi(b')$, so $R'\models p(b')$. And since all the formulas in $p(x)$ are quantifier-free, also $M'\models p(b')$, as desired.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


The Institute for Fiscal Studies, have released their report into levels of government spending on children in England between 2000 and 2020, including benefits, education spending, services for vulnerable children and healthcare.
In the most recent year of data (2017–18), total spending was over £120 billion equating to over £10,000 per child under 18, 42% higher (in real terms) than it was in 2000/1, but 10% below its high point of £11,300 in 2010/11. Current public spending on children is due to remain at about £10,000 per child until 2019/20, the same level in real terms as it was in 2006/07.
Within the overall figures, however, there are some worrying trends. The report indicates that mainstream and acute services such as age 4-16 education and provision for children in care have been protected at the expense of targeted preventative services, removing vital safety nets for some very vulnerable children. The 60% cut in Sure Start and youth services will see an increasing number of vulnerable children fall through the gaps.
The report shows that England now spends nearly half of its entire children's services budget on 73,000 children in the care system – leaving the other half for the remaining 11.7 million children.
Children's Commissioner for England Anne Longfield who commissioned the report commented: "Children do not arrive in extreme need overnight and many could be prevented from getting to that point if we helped them sooner in a more effective way. We are, in effect, attempting to manage and contain crisis in children's lives after allowing it to escalate. The economic and social costs are unsustainable. The cost to the state will ultimately be greater, but it is the lifetime cost to these children which we should be most troubled by. They only have one childhood, one chance to grow up.
Already we see the costs of helping children later in life, or of allowing greater numbers to become marginalised – in the current pressures on family courts, special schools and the care system; in spiralling numbers of school exclusions and the consequent increase in younger and younger children linked to violent street gangs.


If you're planning to launch your business on a global level, you're going to need international SEO.
This special type of SEO will increase the visibility of your business based on the countries your business is targeting and on the languages your website uses for communication.
Think of international SEO like geotargeting.
With the help of international search engine optimization, you can provide your customers with content that's going to be specifically tailored for their current location. Reading articles in your mother tongue, rather than in a foreign language, is almost always easier.
Additionally, if you're a retailer, you should consider showing every price in the local currency.
Customers are more likely to continue browsing your website if they can easily understand (and justify) your prices. Providing the prices in the customer's local currency removes the need to use a 3rd party currency converter for everything the customer is interested in. Simplifying their experience and increasing your sales.
If you're thinking about expanding on a global level, you need to prepare your website for the global market.
As such, you should invest in different sub-domains for every language that your website is available in.
Amazon is a great example of international SEO.
Most of their domains are available to the global public. However, they have a sub-domain for each major market, offering their website in the local language, local time zone, and, most importantly, providing all of their products in the local currency.
You should also consider investing in local hosting.
A local IP will offer considerably faster loading times for customers situated in the given area. If you're already providing services for different countries, consider building links to local content. Your aim should be to provide an inclusive experience for your customers which can be achieved by providing local content and resources designed to specifically address that segment of your customer base.
While Google is the world's most used search engine, you should take into consideration that not all major local markets use Google as their primary method of search.
If you're planning to expand your business into these two markets, you should also consider some extensive research on how the algorithms of these two search engines work. Although Google also holds a part of these local markets as well, you'll want to be as visible as possible in order to increase your return of investment.
Here are a few easy steps to guide you through the process of going global.
Do your research - And by research, I mean extensive research. In order to maximise your profits and reduce the amount of financial investments needed for a successful launch, you need to understand the local market. That's because each local market functions differently from the next. Each has its own customer base and its own successful keywords. Understanding the potential of each market is crucial before launching your business in another country. If you have a business that's already well established in your area, I'm sure that you also have international customers. Checking your website traffic can provide insights about the potential of several local markets.
Target your customers with relevant content - You should already know how to optimise your content for your area. However, as has been said - every local market is different. For a successful start-up you'll want to find keywords that are both competitive and relevant. Although relevant keywords are the key to success, in some markets, the keywords you're accustomed to might not have the same organic search volume. If that's the case, consider creating new content in the native language. Fresh, relevant content that reaches out to your new customers in their native language is not only going to amp up you international street cred, it will undoubtedly increase your customer base, and perhaps most importantly it's also going to increase your website's conversion rates.
Optimise - Your website must be properly optimised for the new local market. Relevant content for your customers must also be crawlable and indexable for search engines. In order to avoid any problems that might come with your website's expansion, don't hesitate to use Google's Webmaster service. You'll find a lot of optimisation tips and tricks there, including, but not limited to URL structures, local IPs, country-code top-level domain names (ccTLD) and duplicate content. Addressing each of these problems will considerably increase your visibility in the search results.
If you follow these three easy steps you'll be successfully launching your business into a new market in no time.
As a final note, I'll show you a quick guide that will help you set a geographical target for your website using the Google Webmaster Tools. Google created these tools in order to aid every website owner into making their website mobile and search friendly. Thanks for that Google!
Setting up your geographical target is fast and easy.
Google offers you the opportunity to set a specific geographical target to your website (i.e a country) or leave the space blank and target customers from around the world. There are advantages and disadvantages regardless of whichever path you choose.
If you've ticked the geographical targeting box, you'll be seeing better results from the local searches that you're targeting. However, your website won't have the same visibility in searches that originate from other countries.
List If you haven't ticked the targeting box, your website will have a higher global visibility. However, you won't see the same extensive results coming from local searches.
You can tick the box in order to attract local searches through the search results, while creating backlinks that will attract international customers. It's going to take more time than the first two options, but the incoming traffic will eventually increase if you're doing it correctly.
The key is to have a clear understanding of who and where your market is.
Once that is established and you know you need to be accessible world wide, then remember -do your research, create quality relevant content for your ideal customer and fully optimise your site to support your international ambitions.
Do this and do it consistently, and before you know it you'll be globally known.


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DI DII DIII
Home Scores Bracket Rankings Stats Video History WCWS
LSU Athletics | March 21, 2015
Bianka Bell goes deep twice as No. 1 LSU crushes No. 6 Oklahoma
Bianka Bell finished the day 2-for-3 with two homers and four RBI.
BATON ROUGE, La. -- A day after combining for just four hits and one run, the fans in Tiger Park on Saturday saw the sticks at work in a big way, as No. 1 LSU exploded for 10 runs on 10 hits to blow past visiting No. 6 Oklahoma 10-2 in six innings to take both games of the series.
Of the 15 total hits by both sides on the day, six were of the home run variety, as LSU (30-1) tied its season-high for home runs in a single game with four on the afternoon. Seven of the nine total for the Tigers earned hits, with seven hits coming in the last two innings alone.
"The great thing about today was we were able to make so many adjustments throughout their entire pitching staff, which I really liked to see," head coach Beth Torina said. "We got to see their lefty [Paige Parker] again today, and we were able to make a good adjustment on her. She's very talented. The fact that we saw as many innings off of her as we did is going to make us better as we continue through this season."
For just the second time this season, an LSU player went yard twice in the same game, as Bianka Bell capped another solid weekend with two home runs, finishing the day 2-for-3 with four RBI and two runs scored with an intentional walk. It was the first multi-homer game of the year for the junior and helped give LSU a lead it wouldn't relinquish.
"Definitely. Just getting the runners on base was really key to that," Bell said. "We knew that Kelsey Stevens was kind of struggling, so I was just looking to try to make her come down the zone or down the middle."
Bell was one of three players to have a home run among multiple hits for the Tigers, as the other two players with home runs also matched that feat as Jaquish went 2-for-4 with two RBI and a run scored with a solo shot and Kellsi Kloss also going 2-for-4 with an RBI and run scored with a solo bomb of her own.
"My team will tell you they still have so much to work on and that they still have a lot of room to grow," Torina said. "It's exciting to see that they continue to push themselves. It was another great test that we passed. What a great program Oklahoma is. They are definitely one of the best teams we've seen all year, without question. I have a ton of respect for what they are doing over there at Oklahoma. They have a great program. I know they are someone we will see again at the end of the year."
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Are Gated Communities Safer?
March 30, 2016 7 comments Print Article
Guest Editorial by Cherie Wicks
From the inside looking out the window of a gated community home, it's likely that you feel safe within the confines of its borders, confident that the walls surrounding you are for your own protection. The ne'er-do-wells are locked out and and the upstanding citizens are comfortable locked in. That is, after all, how gates work, right? Or is it? Recent research suggests that this may not be the case: the assumption that living in a gated community decreases the potential for crime and increases overall safety is a dangerous misconception. There are many factors for a homeowner to consider before deciding to dwell within a gated community, to ensure that he or she ends up on the right side of the fence.
Though the concept of gated communities can be traced back to the days of kings and queens and Medieval knights, at which time the gate separated the royal family from the peasants outside the walls, gated communities first gained popularity in the United States in 1985, when apartment complexes and tract housing communities within highly populated areas began setting up walls around their properties. The trend later spread across the country, gaining popularity in states in the regions of the Southwest and Southeast.
The contemporary gated community falls into one of three categories: elite community, lifestyle community or security zone communities. Each classification of community panders to a specific demographic. The lifestyle community mainly includes retirees and offers property activities, social events, and celebrations that the owners pay dues for. Lifestyle communities have been known to set an age minimum for potential buyers to ensure that integrity of the community's concept is held in strict regard. The aptly named elite community allows only the rich and famous to cross its iron gates. A community such as this uses income and notoriety as criteria for selecting inhabitants and tends to have the strictest of security measures in place. The last category currently houses roughly 3 million American families, the security zone community.
Within the security zone gated community, the tenants are responsible for patrolling the area and reporting possible criminal activity, which some feel ignites more of a fortress environment rather than a subtle sensation of safety. Of the three community categories, the security zone community is the only type of gated environment that does not include an active guard at the gate. Naturally, it is this kind of community that is under safety scrutiny.
Research published in an issue of Justice Quarterly last year reported that burglaries in communities like these have in fact decreased, but that law enforcement saw an unanticipated spike in the ominous, yet ambiguously titled "intimate partner crime" compared to areas outside the gates, suggesting that the walls may work for keeping would-be criminals out, but that they also may be locking something nefarious in. Additionally, cities like Miami have reported that though crime reports involving burglary and auto theft drop immediately after the installation of a gated community, when compared to other non-gated area, the long-term difference is meager.
Are gated homes safer? The answer is both yes and no. Gated communities have the possibility of making a neighborhood safer, but like with most things in life, there is no guarantee. Whether you prefer a home that is behind gates or not, it is recommended that you use supplemental security measures to stack the scales in your favor. Utilize security precautions unique to your home, like those found here, and you won't have to question whether the community gate will hold.


Maksim Frantsuzov had been a well-known person in the underworld.
Thief in law Maksim Frantsuzov, better known in the criminal world as Frantsuz (the Russian for 'Frenchman'), was killed in Novaya Moskva. According to Life, the 26-year-old thief who renounced his title on camera, got thrown out of the window of the apartment where he was living. His body was found near the entrance. The doctors attested the ex-thief's death.
Maksim Frantsuzov had been a well-known person in the underworld. Indeed, no titled thief in law would envy this kind of fame. Frantsuz posted a video in November 2013 where he was looking rather ill and said that he was renouncing the thieves' 'crown'. It looked discrediting and provocative, sources say, and it seemed that the 23-year-old man did not have enough strength or courage to "confront the system." Having weighed his strength against the remaining term, Frantsuz decided that the crown was too heavy for him, according to the sources.
There was an assassination attempt on Frantsuz in July 2015, that time he got four gunshot wounds. It happened in the town of Moskovsky. An unknown man ran up to Frantsuzov who was standing near his house and shot him four times. The thief was taken to the nearest hospital with injured cheekbone, lower back and ankle.
The shooter was a man of Slavic appearance, dressed in a sports sweatshirt and shorts. Interestingly, the killer was clearly trying to protect himself as he put a plastic bag on the gun, according to our sources, so that no liners would be left at the crime scene. By the way, the killer also hit a Lexus parked near the house.
As for the motives behind the assassination, based on the criminal way of life that Frantsuz had been leading even after he was apparently forced to renounce the thief status, we may assume that he had rivals who sent the armed hitman. Perhaps the attempted murder of Frantsuzov was part of the fight for criminal influence.
CrimeRussia's sources gave more specific assumptions. It turned out that shortly before what had happened, Frantsuzov had had a conflict with thief in law Kahaber Parpalia, nicknamed in the criminal world as Kakha Galsky. There are reports that Frantsuz openly declared that he did not know him as a thief. It was somewhat odd to hear things like that coming from Frantsuzov. After all, he was the one who "renounced the thieves' lifestyle" for the camera. Many condemned young Maksim's gesture, while others remarked on signs of torture that could be seen in the video.
Moreover, there is a version that Frantsuzov paid his price for trying to create a criminal gang in Novaya Moskva that would be covering up prostitution.
Frantsuzov was given the thief's title in absentia while he was serving his prison term. Gela Kardava became his godfather. Once he got released in 2014, Frantsuzov went to Vasya Voskres who had an enormous clout and tried to explain that the harsh conditions of the Khakass colony had forced him to do what he did, but this did not help him to regain the crown.


In your home you want cabinets that create a sense of warmth and style, while at the same time providing lasting value. Genereux gives you that and more. Our cabinets have been installed everywhere ranging from functional homes to executive spaces.
Care, quality and thoughtful craftsmanship are the reasons Genereux has been the choice for homeowners and builders alike since 1978. Take a look and see why the Builders Association and ASID have chosen our cabinetry for numerous awards.


Get into the spring of things at Semiahmoo, the perfect base camp for your next adventure. Whether you're planning an intimate escape or a family retreat, Semiahmoo is brimming with fun activities. Stay in the know of the happenings around the resort with our spring activities guide.
Gather with your loved ones to savor a delicious Easter brunch buffet at Semiahmoo, along with an exciting egg hunt for all ages.
Make this Mother's Day exceptional with brunch in Packers to celebrate the women you call "Mom".
Join us for a one-day extravaganza complete with tastings galore from local breweries benefiting the Make.Shift Foundation.
We love any excuse to celebrate local, craft beer – so we've dedicated an entire series to it! Drop by Packers Kitchen + Bar the first Friday of every month to experience a Tap Takeover to satisfy all of our taste buds.
Savor reputable wines masterfully paired with seasonally inspired menus at our Winemaker Dinners. Each dinner features a different winery, whom the Semiahmoo Culinary Team works with closely to thoughtfully craft each menu.
From golf clinics to tournaments, specials and promotions to painting classes in the clubhouse, there's always something exciting happening at Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club.


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Home News & Analysis Yaguchi to head RE at Japan Post Bank
Yaguchi to head RE at Japan Post Bank
Senior executive at the Development Bank of Japan Kazunari Yaguchi has been appointed by the Japan Post Bank to head its newly-created real estate investing division
PEI Staff
The Japan Post Bank, the country's largest bank by deposits, has appointed Kazunari Yaguchi as department head of its real estate investment department.
Yaguchi, formerly a senior executive at the Development Bank of Japan, was appointed on March 1, the Tokyo-headquartered bank said in an announcement made on its Japanese website.
The news of an external hire comes weeks after Japan Post Bank, part of Japan Post Holdings, decided to create a separate division for real estate investments and subsequently reshuffled its senior management. Tokihiko Shimizu, the former head of the private equity investment department, was given oversight of the real estate department on a temporary basis. According to the release, Shimizu has now been promoted full time to a more senior position overseeing the wider alternatives group.
Yaguchi comes from the Development Bank of Japan where he spent over two decades in several senior roles. He has worked towards building the bank's real estate investment and finance business since 2000. Most recently he was the deputy general manager of its real estate finance department, providing debt and equity for domestic real estate projects as well as investing in overseas private funds.
With a portfolio totaling ¥204 trillion (1.5 trillion; $1.7 trillion) in assets, Japan Post Bank has started investing in alternatives such as private equity but is yet to make a real estate foray. A dedicated department is indication enough of its plans to diversify into the asset class.
allocation strategy


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Q: Условный тернарный оператор в JavaScript idVhod.style.display = (idVhod.style.display == 'inline') ? '' : 'inline';

Как именно работает условный тернарный оператор в JavaScript? Какое значение присваивается свойству display ?

A: Здесь использован тернарный оператор "если"
(idVhod.style.display == 'inline') ? '' : 'inline';

Если описать смысл то это выглядит вот так:
// если у элемента idVhod css стиль дисплей равен инлайн
if (idVhod.style.display == 'inline'){
  // сбросим css стиль дисплей до его значения по умолчанию
  idVhod.style.display = '';
}
else{
  // Иначе установим css стиль дисплей в инлайн
  idVhod.style.display = 'inline';
}

A: Как @Andrei и сказал, это тернарный оператор, вообще это конструкция:
(idVhod.style.display == 'inline') ? '' : 'inline';

Эквивалентна:
(function() {
  if(idVhod.style.display == 'inline') {
    return ''
  }

  return 'inline'
})();

То есть, получается такой код:
idVhod.style.display = (function() {
  if(idVhod.style.display == 'inline') { // если idVhod имеет CSS свойство display, равную inline, тогда
    return '' // вернуть пустую строку (то есть убрать свойство display)
  }

  return 'inline' // иначе, возвращаем inline
})();

Как работает условный тернарный оператор?
Сначала мы пишем условие, потом знак ?, после него, то что мы должны дать, если условие выполнилось. После, обязательно пишем :, ну и соответственно после этого знака пишем то, что должно вернутся если условие не сработало, то есть синтаксис какой-то такой:
условие ? ответЕслиУсловиеСработало : ответЕслиУсловиеНеСработало

Внимание, в отличие от if (...) { ... } else { ... }, мы не можем просто взять и убрать else { ... }, в условном тернарном операторе всегда должно быть значение которое вернётся, если условие не сработает.
Так что же делает строка?
Строка меняет свойство display, у элемента idVhod, если на данный свойство равно inline, тогда display в принципе убирается из стилей (CSS свойство в JavaScript, можно убрать из стилей, если ему присвоить пустую строку), если же display не равен inline'у, тогда его делают inline'ом, вот так вот всё просто.
Материал по теме:

*

*Условный (тернарный) оператор

*Тернарная условная операция

*Тернарные операторы

*Условный оператор "?"

*Тернарный оператор (условный оператор Javascript).


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Weekend of Valentine's Day events planned downtown
by: Jessica Hayes
Posted: Feb 12, 2016 / 03:21 AM EST / Updated: Feb 12, 2016 / 04:50 AM EST
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (February 12, 2016) - Valentine's Day is Sunday, and a weekend of events is planned in downtown Indianapolis to celebrate.
Starting Friday morning, The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is playing a tribute to the 100th birthday of Frank Sinatra at the Hilbert Circle Theater.
Then, Friday tonight, ladies can head to the Indiana State Museum for the Galantine's Day event.
Also on Friday night, the Fountain Square Theater Building will offer swing dancing with lessons beforehand.
On Saturday morning, the 'Be My Valentine' 5K run/walk kicks off at the Athenaeum with a course through downtown.
Saturday night, the Rathskeller is offering dinner and dancing.
Then, on Valentine's Day, Babyface will perform at Old National Centre.
"There are some great, romantic restaurants downtown that you can head to," said Amanda Dorman with Downtown Indy. "Whether you want to go out for a night of dancing or dinner or some live music, there's something happening on Friday night through Sunday."
Families have options too, including Peewinkle's Puppet Studio, which is offering performances all weekend.
Click here for a complete list of Valentine's Day events Downtown.
More Morning News Stories
Local fashion expert encourages more accessories for 2021
INDIANAPOLIS-- Many are still working from home, which probably means a lot of zoom calls. You still want to look nice, at least from the top up. Jewelry and hair accessories can keep you looking professional and fresh, even if you're wearing sweatpants. Fashion and beauty expert Nicole Rene has a look at some of the 2021 trends for fashion accessories. For more information, head to her website.
Local hospital leaders take part in forum to discuss racism as 'public health crisis'
by Eric Pointer / Jan 19, 2021
INDIANAPOLIS -- There will be a virtual forum to discuss claims of disproportionate care for certain Indianapolis area communities Tuesday night.
Advocates for Black Hoosiers will be speaking with local hospital and community leaders about racism as a public health crisis.
Registration open for 500 festival mini marathon
INDIANAPOLIS-- It's still months away, but registration is open for the 500 festival mini marathon. This will be the 44th running of the hugely popular race. Last year it was held virtually and more than 8,000 people participated. Bob Bryant is the president and CEO of the 500 festival. He explains this year's race. For more information, head to their website.


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'Anurag Thakur can win only because of Congress '
oi-Hardeep Singh Bedi
By Hardeep Singh Bedi
| Published: Saturday, May 18, 2019, 7:00 [IST]
New Delhi, May 17: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Hamirpur Lok Sabha in Himachal Pradesh can win the election only because of the Congress, claims a Shimla-based source.
Hamirpur is one the four seats of the state that will vote in the seventh and final phase on Sunday. The other seats are: Shimla, Mandi, and Kangra parliamentary constituencies. The BJP had won all the four seats in 2014.
Anurag Thakur
The BJP has fielded its three-time MP Anurag Thakur from Hamirpur. He is the son of former Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal. According to the source, the seat has become a survival battle for the father-son duo as there has been strong anti-incumbency against the sitting MP.
"If Anurag wins the Lok Sabha election for the fourth time in a row then he will become very powerful in the state politics and could become a strong contender for the post of Chief Minister in the next Assembly elections. Therefore, it's obvious that Chief Minister Jai Ram and Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda won't put their weight behind Anurag. The amount of anti-incumbency against him is so much that even the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi can't ensure his victory. He can only win because of the factionalism in the Congress, " says the source.
Congress has pitted five-time MLA and former Minister Ram Lal Thakur against Anurag.
"Ram Lal Thakur has not got the full support from the local Congress leaders. For example, the faction led by former Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee President Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has been covertly working to defeat the Congress candidate. This infighting may become a boon for Anurag Thakur, " asserts the source.
[Water, jobs among top priorities of Himachal voters]
The BJP is fighting to retain all the seats and all the candidates have been seeking votes in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Congress on the other hand is highlighting local issues and questioning the performance of the BJP-led state government.
According to another source in Delhi, Congress is not pinning hopes on any seat except Shimla as the party is fighting the elections with the severe lack of funds.
"There was a demand of Rs. 5000 per booth from the state but Rs. 1000 per booth was provided. The frontal organisations of the Congress like Youth Congress, Mahila Congress and Seva Dal are not participating in the elections with full force due the fund shortage," says a source.
[In Himachal Pradesh, it's Sharma vs. Sharma to capture Mandi]
The Congress has fielded two-time MP Dhani Ram Shandil from Shimla. Considering the importance of the seat, the BJP replaced its two-time MP Virender Kashyap and gave the ticket to party MLA Suresh Kashyap.
Both the contenders are from the Army background and belong to Koli (SC) community.
It's notable that Rahul Gandhi addressed a rally in Solan on Friday in support of Shandil.
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BJP MP and BCCI President Anurag Thakur to join Territorial Army
anurag thakur himachal pradesh lok sabha elections 2019
Story first published: Saturday, May 18, 2019, 7:00 [IST]