For the move to value-based care to succeed, the healthcare industry must give patients more agency, CMS representatives told members of Congress on Wednesday.
The federal government has been focused on interoperability for at least the past ten years. Most recently, CMS Administrator Seema Verma announced MyHealthEData, a Trump administration initiative intended to give patients greater control over their own data—though details on how that will work have been sparse.
"As hard as it is to put patients in the driver's seat, at the end of the day, it's really the only solution," Demetrios Kouzoukas, principal deputy administrator for CMS, told the U.S. House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee's health subcommittee during Wednesday's hearing. "The patient is the one experiencing sickness and making choices about their care."
This recent push for greater interoperability is unique because of its focus on the patient, Kouzoukas said.
"The focus is not on interoperability for its own sake but interoperability for the opportunity it presents to patients to be empowered and have access to their information," he said. "Ultimately, we think that if you put patients in the position to help drive that value, you're going to get to a better place."
The increased focus on patients is also evident in the CMS' Patients Over Paperwork initiative, though which CMS administrators intend to reduce the regulatory burden on providers.
Meanwhile, CMS administrators are also working on another attempt to reduce the burden on providers, Meaningful Measures, which administrators intend to make quality reporting more efficient. This is not to be confused with meaningful use, a program Verma said would be overhauled to make complying with it cheaper and less time-consuming.


text:
Browse Books: Social Science / Death & Dying
Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End (Paperback)
By Atul Gawande
Between Two Kingdoms: A Memoir of a Life Interrupted (Hardcover)
By Suleika Jaouad
When Breath Becomes Air (Hardcover)
By Paul Kalanithi, Abraham Verghese (Foreword by)
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes: And Other Lessons from the Crematory (Paperback)
By Caitlin Doughty
Cultivating the Doula Heart: Essentials of Compassionate Care (Paperback)
By Francesca Lynn Arnoldy, Robert E. Gramling (Foreword by)
Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers (Paperback)
By Mary Roach
Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs?: And Other Questions About Dead Bodies (Paperback)
By Caitlin Doughty, Dianné Ruz (Illustrator)
The Smooth River: Finding Inspiration and Exquisite Beauty during Terminal Illness. Lessons from the Front Line. (Paperback)
By Richard S. Cohen
From Here to Eternity: Traveling the World to Find the Good Death (Paperback)
By Caitlin Doughty, Landis Blair (Illustrator)
On Death and Dying: What the Dying Have to Teach Doctors, Nurses, Clergy and Their Own Families (Paperback)
By Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, Ira Byock, M.D. (Foreword by)
Social Science / Death & Dying
Body Language & Nonverbal Communication
Children's Studies
Developing & Emerging Countries
Disasters & Disaster Relief
Disease & Health Issues
Feminism & Feminist Theory
Freemasonry & Secret Societies
Future Studies
Holidays (non-religious)
Men's Studies
Poverty & Homelessness
Privacy & Surveillance
Prostitution & Sex Trade
Sexual Abuse & Harassment
Social Classes & Economic Disparity
Violence in Society

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Q: jQuery clone() leaves user data in input field See jsfiddle: http://jsfiddle.net/bjCz3/
html

           <input type="text" name="test" />

 Click Me
jquery
  $('#clickMe').click(function(event){
   event.preventDefault();

   var tr = $('.copyMe:last');
   var newTr = tr.clone();
   newTr.appendTo(tr.parent());
  });

If you type text in the input, and click the click me, the row (including the input) is cloned and inserted - and has the data you entered.
The API for clone() says:

The .clone() method performs a deep copy of the set of matched
  elements, meaning that it copies the matched elements as well as all
  of their descendant elements and text nodes. For performance reasons,
  the dynamic state of form elements (e.g., user data typed into input, and textarea or user selections made to a select) is not copied
  to the cloned elements. The clone operation sets these fields to
  their default values as specified in the HTML.

http://api.jquery.com/clone/
So why does my input have the value filled in, and more important, how can I prevent it? I want them to be empty/default like the documentation implies. I tried specifying both arguments as false even though they default to that, and it still copies it.

A: If you are working with inputs that aren't checked or have values set on page load. ( or you want defaults that are set)...cache a row before user touches one . Then clone that stored row to append when needed
/* store row on page load*/
 var tr = $('.copyMe:last').clone();
 $('#clickMe').click(function(event){
   event.preventDefault();

  var newTr = tr.clone();....

})

A: As far as a way to clear it yourself.
$('#clickMe').click(function(event){
  event.preventDefault();
  var tr = $('.copyMe:last');
  var newTr = tr.clone();
  newTr.find('input').val('');
  newTr.appendTo(tr.parent());
});

Update
newTr.find("input[type=text], textarea").val("");
newTr.find('input:checkbox').removeAttr('checked');

http://jsfiddle.net/bjCz3/3/

A: Do it yourself after filling a bug report at jquery:
  $('#clickMe').click(function(event){
   event.preventDefault();
   var tr = $('.copyMe:last');
   var newTr = tr.clone();
   newTr.find(":input").val(''); //find all input types (input, textarea), empty it.
   newTr.appendTo(tr.parent());
  });

Updated working fiddle: http://jsfiddle.net/bjCz3/2/

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
HomeNews2022General George S. Patton Scholarship of Honor
General George S. Patton Scholarship of Honor
The deadline for the application of of the General George S. Patton's honorary scholarship is February 28, 2022. (deadline can be extended by agreement with sponsors)
General George S. Patton's honorary scholarship is awarded to one of the Pilsen high school graduates who has decided to serve in the military, security forces or community service (eg police, fire department, rescue service, health care, teaching, social services, humanitarian work, church service and other public services, etc.).
The candidate passes the school-leaving examination at Pilsen high schools in 2021 or they are preparing to pass the school-leaving examination in 2022.
To receive the application, it is necessary to fill in the electronic application, send the essay and other materials by email (copy of the certificate, possible confirmation of admission to the next level of education, name of two people who can provide information about the applicant) by 28 February 2022.
The scholarship holder will receive $ 1,000 and a scholarship medal.
Detailed information can be found on General George S. Patton Honorary Fellowship website, https://www.briansjourney.com/soh/pilsen-cz
Every May since 1990, Plzeň goes notionally back to 1945. Liberation festival is held here and people from all over the world come here to celebrate the liberation by the US Army with the inhabitants of the town, military veterans and their families together.


This afternoon we are seeing a weak disturbance moving through and it is producing sleet and perhaps even some wet snow flakes mixed in. Temperatures at the ground are in the upper 30s and lower 40s so this is having no impact on commutes. Some wet snow flakes could be mixing in over elevated areas and rain elsewhere. This disturbance will continue to move along and should be moving offshore and to the east this evening.
Radar shows the area centered over NYC. There is one more patch of precipitation in Eastern Pennsylvania that will play through as well. Behind this system skies will actually partially clear from the northeast to southwest tonight with temperatures in the upper 20s to mid 30s by morning.
There are no changes to the weekend outlook. We actually will start Saturday with sunshine before clouds move in. Rain will arrive in the late afternoon and evening as a warm front begins its approach from the south. Temperatures will be chilly Saturday with highs just into the 40s. When rain arrives in Northeast Pennsylvania some sleet and freezing rain could be there at the start and that will also occur at the start in the Catskills and in the Hudson Valley north of route 84. Then look for rain overnight into Sunday morning. Rainfall amounts will be 3/4 inch to 1.25 inches. Rain ends Sunday morning from west to east.
Sunday's dilemma remains regarding whether the warm front moves through or not. For Central and South Jersey and in Eastern Pennsylvania it should make it and highs could reach the 60s Sunday afternoon with leftover clouds. For other areas from Northern New Jersey to Southern New England it could be a struggle for much of the day. Temperatures should make it to the 50s regardless. As far as next week is concerned we will address that this evening in a long range post.


text:
'Udta Punjab' is not banned: Anurag Kashyap
"Udta Punjab" is not banned, says the film's co-producer Anurag Kashyap, following reports that the censor board gave a no-permit for the release of the movie which is about drug trafficking in Punjab.
Kashyap, on Saturday, took to social media to put an end to rumours surrounding the ban on the film.
"A film is banned only when examining, revising and (Film Certification Appellate Tribunal) FCAT -- all three refuse certificate. And then you fight it out in Supreme Court.
"And due process takes it own time, so please abstain for spreading a BAN rumour. There is nothing to speak on the subject as of now. For the record, 'Udta Punjab' is not banned. The examining committee has deferred the decision to Revising and due process is on," he tweeted.
According to multiple media reports, the country's Central Board of Film Certification gave a complete no-permit to release "Udta Punjab", citing "excessive swearing, abusive language and drug consumption" in its content.
The film, which stars Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Diljit Dosanjh, is a story that revolves around drug abuse in north of Punjab and how the youth there have succumbed to it.
The Abhishek Chaubey directorial has been co-produced by Kashyap, Vikramaditya Motwane and Vikas Bahl as part of their Phantom Films banner, along with Shobha Kapoor, Ekta Kapoor, Aman Gill and Sameer Nair.
He has to forgive me someday: Arijit Singh on row with Salman Khan Poster of Vidya Balan's first Marathi film out
Ekta Kapoor
Vikas Bahl
Shobha Kapoor
Anita Hassanandani Reddy ...
Ekta Kapoor Sides Priyank ...
Parth & Erica, Anita, ...


Salam Cafe is breaking down stereotypes in Melbourne. By Brad Newsome.
IN THE jubilant West Coast rooms at the MCG after this year's AFL grand final, it wasn't Channel Ten with its megabucks television rights contract and big-name presenters who got the most memorable interview - it was the young and high-spirited crew from Salam Cafe, the cult Muslim panel show on Channel 31.
Throughout the day, Salam Cafe's intrepid roving reporter, Nazeem Hussain, had been asking footy fans and hot-dog vendors alike for some dates to break his Ramadan fast, without luck. It was only in the rooms after the match that West Coast ruckman Dean Cox, discussing the role of religion in football with a beer in one hand and a premiership medallion around his neck, came up with a plastic bag full of the sugary goods.
It's a tribute to the infectious good humour of the Salam Cafe team that they could get the West Coast footballers to give so happily and generously of their time on the biggest day of their careers (and, in the case of Sydney coach Paul Roos, one of the most disappointing).
Now in its third season, Salam Cafe is hitting its straps with its blend of light-hearted panel discussions with prominent Australian Muslims and non-Muslims, coverage of events such as the football and the Melbourne Show, and sketches such as "Australian Imam", in which eccentric clerics vie for the title of Australia's Most Controversial Imam.
Co-founder and panel member Ahmed Hassan says he and some friends hit upon the idea of a fun Muslim TV show in mid-2004.
"(We) were getting frustrated seeing that 99 per cent of Muslims on TV were the worst 1 per cent of our community and that the Muslims you see on TV were nothing like the Muslims we knew in our daily circles," he says.
"And especially me, with kids approaching teenage years, every day they'd just come home and watch Today Tonight or anything like that and see, like, some freaky, bad, evil Muslim on TV - it was nothing like people we know.
"I'm a doctor, I've got nothing to do with TV production ... and then I just thought, 'It's really got ridiculous. Let's try and do something about it.' "
That something was Ramadan TV, four episodes of panel discussion that went to air in late 2004 and blossomed the following year into the significantly slicker Salam Cafe, which is now in its third series.
"We filmed the first four episodes (of Ramadan TV) at a school, Minaret College, in one of the classrooms and we used some Sony Handycams, which we went out and bought.
"We approached Channel 31 and ... they were able to allow four episodes as a sort of a pilot and really liked it. They said, 'This is great - all the other Muslim shows we've ever had have been, like, people talking in Arabic and very serious and you don't know what they're saying.' "
Hassan says the show is aimed equally at Muslims and non-Muslims.
"It's basically to open a window into the Muslim community, to entertain our own community so at least they can have a haven when they watch TV - that there's some nice, happy, smiling Muslims on and they can have a bit of a laugh - and for the wider Australian community to just open an accurate window into the Muslim community in Melbourne to reassure them, 'Hey! We're OK.' "
The show has scooped up an armful of trophies at the Antennas, the national community TV awards, including this year's best program award. With highlights and entire episodes posted on the website youtube.com, it has also attracted attention from around the world, with Muslims writing in from South Africa, Britain, Turkey, Malaysia and the US saying that they have nothing like it in their own countries.
More importantly, in Australia it has helped break down stereotypes about Muslims. In letters and emails, non-Muslim viewers have said, among other things, that they didn't know Muslims are allowed to laugh, that Muslim women are allowed to talk, and, of course, that Muslims go to the footy.
Hassan says he is pleased that the show is finding people who are open to seeing Muslims in a new light but was surprised and saddened by the ignorance that such letters revealed.
"We've been here since the Afghan camel drivers, I've been here all my life - it's not as if we've suddenly been miraculously discovered," he says.
Salam Cafe host Ahmed Imam is also pleased the show is helping to break down barriers.
"We've said all along that it's never going to be a show about Islam the religion, it's about personalising Muslims so that the non-Muslim can turn it on and be comfortable watching," he says.
"I think we're starting, believe it or not, to get a bit of a cult following as well, within the Muslim community for sure but I've even met some non-Muslims who've said, 'I watch you guys every week.' "
The show, which this year is receiving funding from the City of Melbourne, is filmed in front of a live audience at RMIT's TV studios; many in the crew are non-Muslim students.
"The agreement with RMITV is that their students get involved, so we've got a lot of the crew who are non-Muslim working with us and they're part of the family. It's not like there's a divide between Muslim and non-Muslim, because everyone's together making the show," Imam says.
Indeed, the taping of the show is like a big, friendly, family gathering. A Green Guide interview with panel members after a recent taping turned into something akin to an open forum of 20 or so cast, crew, family and friends.
Most of those involved are confident that in the years to come, Muslim Australians will be accepted in the way that Greek, Italian and Chinese Australians have been.
However, panel member Waleed Aly, a member of the Islamic Council of Victoria and a regular contributor to The Age, sounds a note of caution.
"Greeks and Italians didn't come to Australia with a war on terror going on in the background. It's a different situation and a lot's going to depend, I reckon, in the next three to five years on the temperature that the politicians set but a lot's also going to depend on the action that Muslim Australia takes," he says.


text:
Q: Application not listening on port 5000 on aws host I developed a new application from scratch to upgrade a legacy application from 1.xx to 3.1. Microsoft changed Startup and launch code/api changed a lot since then.
The problem is that requests are not getting routed to my new application and I'm getting server at capacity error in postman API calls or 503 service unavailable.
I revert to old app and all requests work, something wrong with the startup configuration with this new project app.
Legacy
The legacy generated Program.cs looked like this and the listening port is hardcoded into the code. (Works)
public static void Main(string[] args)
{
    var host = new WebHostBuilder()
        .UseKestrel()
        .UseContentRoot(Directory.GetCurrentDirectory())
        .UseIISIntegration()
        .UseStartup<Startup>()
        .UseUrls("http://*:5000")
        .Build();

    host.Run();
}

New
Program.cs looks like this. (Doesn't work)
public static void Main(string[] args)
{
    CreateHostBuilder(args).Build().Run();
}

public static IHostBuilder CreateHostBuilder(string[] args) =>
    Host.CreateDefaultBuilder(args)
        .ConfigureWebHostDefaults(webBuilder => { webBuilder.UseStartup<view.components.Startup>(); });

New launchSettings.json looks like this. (Note: My SSL port is 5000, that's where AWS Load Balancer is configured for).
Tried https://*:5000;http://*:5001 as well as https://127.0.0.1:5000;http://127.0.0.1:5001
{

  "iisSettings": {

    "windowsAuthentication": false,

   "anonymousAuthentication": true,

    "iisExpress": {

       "applicationUrl": "http://localhost:7193",

       "sslPort": 0

    }

  },

  "profiles": {

   "IIS Express": {
      "commandName": "IISExpress",

     "launchBrowser": true,

     "environmentVariables": {

      "ASPNETCORE_ENVIRONMENT": "Development"

     }

   },

   "Service": {

     "commandName": "Project",

     "launchBrowser": false,

     "applicationUrl": "https://localhost:5000;http://localhost:5001",

     "environmentVariables": {

       "ASPNETCORE_ENVIRONMENT": "Production"
     }

   }

 }

}

My LoadBalancer in front of EC2.


text:
Erich Pattis (* 7. Oktober 1902 in Tiers; † 26. November 1996 in Bozen) war ein Südtiroler Architekt.

Biographie
Pattis wurde 1902 als Sohn des Postdirektors von Tiers geboren. Er absolvierte das Gymnasium und studierte zunächst Architektur an der Technischen Hochschule Wien. Er wechselte während des Studiums an die Akademie zur Meisterklasse von Clemens Holzmeister. Nach Abschluss der Studien an der Akademie fand er Anstellung im Stadtbauamt von Mülheim an der Ruhr.

Die Weltwirtschaftskrise brachte die Bautätigkeit praktisch vollständig zum Erliegen, weshalb Pattis näher zur Heimat zurückkehrte und sein Glück zunächst in Innsbruck versuchte. Nach nur mäßigem Erfolg kehrte er nach Bozen zurück und gestaltete mehrere private Bauaufträge. Während der Kriegsjahre des Zweiten Weltkrieges zog Pattis zunächst nach Innsbruck, später nach München. Er wurde zum Kriegsdienst eingezogen und kam nach Russland, in den Kaukasus und auf die Krim. In der Endphase des Krieges kam er nach Bozen, wo ihn die Stadtverwaltung mit städtebaulichen Aufgaben betraute. Im nationalsozialistischen Bozner Tagblatt beklagte er 1944 den alliierten Luftkrieg und die damit einhergehenden Zerstörungen propagandistisch als Terror gegen Kultur und warnte vor der Amerikanisierung.

Pattis betätigte sich auch als Graphiker und Zeichner. Er zeichnete vor allem Objekte der romanischen Architektur und Plastik. Jahrelang arbeitete er an seinem Bildband Christus Dominator, einer Sammlung von Abbildern romanischer Kruzifixe. Pattis war Mitbegründer und 20 Jahre lang Präsident des Südtiroler Künstlerbundes. 1967 wurde er mit dem Walther-von-der-Vogelweide-Preis ausgezeichnet.

Werke
 Bozen, Gries-Quirein: Villa Lantieri, Penegalstr. 29, 1932 (heute stark verändert)
 Bozen, Gries-Quirein: Villa Leiss, Nino-Bixio-Str. 17, 1934 (heute verändert)
 Bozen, Gries-Quirein: Villa Tietz, Fagenstr. 4, 1935 (heute stark verändert)
 Graun: Neue Pfarrkirche St. Katharina 1950
 Bozen, St. Oswald: Haus Romen, Oswaldweg 19, 1953
 Bozen: St. Georg in Wangg, Neubau 1957/58
 Burgstall: Neuer Friedhof 1958
 Rabland: Christkönigkirche 1961/63
 Steinhaus, Neuer Friedhof 1970

Galerie

Literatur
 Johannes Ludwig (Professor, aus München): Architekt Dr.-Ing. Erich Pattis, Träger des Walther-von-der-Vogelweide-Preises 1967. In: Der Schlern, Mai 1968 (Heft 5 vom 42. Jahrgang)
 Josef Weingartner: Die Kunstdenkmäler Südtirols. 7. Auflage, Athesia, Bozen 1991.

Einzelnachweise

Architekt (Österreich)
Architekt (Italien)
Mitglied der Bayerischen Akademie der Schönen Künste
Person (Tiers)
Person (Tirol)
Person (Südtirol)
Österreicher
Italiener
Geboren 1902
Gestorben 1996
Mann

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
James Monroe Last State of the Union Address
PRESIDENT JAMES MONROE
Fellow Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives:
The view which I have now to present to you of our affairs, foreign and domestic, realizes the most sanguine anticipations which have been entertained of the public prosperity. If we look to the whole, our growth as a nation continues to be rapid beyond example; if to the States which compose it, the same gratifying spectacle is exhibited. Our expansion over the vast territory within our limits has been great, without indicating any decline in those sections from which the emigration has been most conspicuous. We have daily gained strength by a native population in every quarter — a population devoted to our happy system of government and cherishing the bond of union with internal affection.
Experience has already shewn that the difference of climate and of industry, proceeding from that cause, inseparable from such vast domains, and which under other systems might have a repulsive tendency, can not fail to produce with us under wise regulations the opposite effect. What one portion wants the other may supply; and this will be most sensibly felt by the parts most distant from each other, forming thereby a domestic market and an active intercourse between the extremes and throughout every portion of our Union.
Thus by a happy distribution of power between the National and State Governments, Governments which rest exclusively on the sovereignty of the people and are fully adequate to the great purposes for which they were respectively instituted, causes which might otherwise lead to dismemberment operate powerfully to draw us closer together.
In every other circumstance a correct view of the actual state of our Union must be equally gratifying to our constituents. Our relations with foreign powers are of a friendly character, although certain interesting differences remain unsettled with some. Our revenue under the mild system of impost and tonnage continues to be adequate to all the purposes of the Government.
Our agriculture, commerce, manufactures, and navigation flourish. Our fortifications are advancing in the degree authorized by existing appropriations to maturity, and due progress is made in the augmentation of the Navy to the limit prescribed for it by law.
For these blessings we owe to Almighty God, from whom we derive them, and with profound reverence, our most grateful and unceasing acknowledgments.
In adverting to our relations with foreign powers, which are always an object of the highest importance, I have to remark that of the subjects which have been brought into discussion with them during the present Administration some have been satisfactorily terminated, others have been suspended, to be resumed hereafter under circumstances more favorable to success, and others are still in negotiation, with the hope that they may be adjusted with mutual accommodation to the interests and to the satisfaction of the respective parties. It has been the invariable object of this Government to cherish the most friendly relations with every power, and on principles and conditions which might make them permanent. A systematic effort has been made to place our commerce with each power on a footing of perfect reciprocity, to settle with each in a spirit of candor and liberality all existing differences, and to anticipate and remove so far as it might be practicable all causes of future variance.
It having been stipulated by the 7th article of the convention of navigation and commerce which was concluded on [1822-06-24], between the United States and France, that the said convention should continue in force for two years from the first of October of that year, and for an indefinite term afterwards, unless one of the parties should declare its intention to renounce it, in which event it should cease to operate at the end of 6 months from such declaration, and no such intention having been announced, the convention having been found advantageous to both parties, it has since remained, and still remains, in force.
At the time when that convention was concluded many interesting subjects were left unsettled, and particularly our claim to indemnity for spoliations which were committed on our commerce in the late wars. For these interests and claims it was in the contemplation of the parties to make provision at a subsequent day by a more comprehensive and definitive treaty. The object has been duly attended to since by the Executive, but as yet it has not been accomplished.
It is hoped that a favorable opportunity will present itself for opening a negotiation which may embrace and arrange all existing differences and every other concern in which they have a common interest upon the accession of the present King of France, an event which has occurred since the close of the last session of Congress.
With Great Britain our commercial intercourse rests on the same footing that it did at the last session. by the convention of 1815, the commerce between the United States and the British dominions in Europe and the East Indies was arranged on a principle of reciprocity. That convention was confirmed and continued in force, with slight exceptions, by a subsequent treaty for the term of 10 years from [1818-10-20], the date of the latter.
The trade with the British colonies in the West Indies has not as yet been arranged, by treaty or otherwise, to our satisfaction. An approach to that result has been made by legislative acts, whereby many serious impediments which had been raised by the parties in defense of their respective claims were removed. An earnest desire exists, and has been manifested on the part of this Government, to place the commerce with the colonies, likewise, on a footing of reciprocal advantage, and it is hoped that the British Government, seeing the justice of the proposal and its importance to the colonies, will ere long accede to it.
The commissioners who were appointed for the adjustment of the boundary between the territories of the United States and those of Great Britain, specified in the 5th article of the treaty of Ghent, having disagreed in their decision, and both Governments having agreed to establish that boundary by amicable negotiation between them, it is hoped that it may be satisfactorily adjusted in that mode. The boundary specified by the 6th article has been established by the decision of the commissioners. From the progress made in that provided for by the 7th, according to a report recently received, there is good cause to presume that it will be settled in the course of the ensuing year.
It is a cause of serious regret that no arrangement has yet been finally concluded between the two Governments to secure by joint cooperation the suppression of the slave trade. It was the object of the British Government in the early stages of the negotiation to adopt a plan for the suppression which should include the concession of the mutual right of search by the ships of war of each party of the vessels of the other for suspected offenders. This was objected to by this Government on the principle that as the right of search was a right of war of a belligerent toward a neutral power it might have an ill effect to extend it by treaty, to an offense which had been made comparatively mild, to a time of peace.
Anxious, however, for the suppression of this trade, it was thought advisable, in compliance with a resolution of the House of Representatives, founded on an act of Congress, to propose to the British Government an expedient which should be free from that objection and more effectual for the object, by making it piratical. In that mode the enormity of the crime would place the offenders out of the protection of their Government, and involve no question of search or other question between the parties touching their respective rights. It was believed, also, that it would completely suppress the trade in the vessels of both parties, and by their respective citizens and subjects in those of other powers, with whom it was hoped that the odium which would thereby be attached to it would produce a corresponding arrangement, and by means thereof its entire extirpation forever.
A convention to this effect was concluded and signed in London on [1824-03-13], by plenipotentiaries duly authorized by both Governments, to the ratification of which certain obstacles have arisen which are not yet entirely removed. The difference between the parties still remaining has been reduced to a point not of sufficient magnitude, as is presumed, to be permitted to defeat an object so near to the heart of both nations and so desirable to the friends of humanity throughout the world. As objections, however, to the principle recommended by the House of Representatives, or at least to the consequences inseparable from it, and which are understood to apply to the law, have been raised, which may deserve a reconsideration of the whole subject, I have thought it proper to suspend the conclusion of a new convention until the definitive sentiments of Congress may be ascertained. The documents relating to the negotiation are with that intent submitted to your consideration.
Our commerce with Sweden has been placed on a footing of perfect reciprocity by treaty, and with Russia, the Netherlands, Prussia, the free Hanseatic cities, the Dukedom of Oldenburg, and Sardinia by internal regulations on each side, founded on mutual agreement between the respective Governments.
The principles upon which the commercial policy of the United States is founded are to be traced to an early period. They are essentially connected with those upon which their independence was declared, and owe their origin to the enlightened men who took the lead in our affairs at that important epoch. They are developed in their first treaty of commerce with France of [1778-02-06], and by a formal commission which was instituted immediately after the conclusion of their Revolutionary struggle, for the purpose of negotiating treaties of commerce with every European power. The first treaty of the United States with Prussia, which was negotiated by that commission, affords a signal illustration of those principles. The act of Congress of [1815-03-03], adopted immediately after the return of a general peace, was a new overture to foreign nations to establish our commercial relations with them on the basis of free and equal reciprocity. That principle has pervaded all the acts of Congress and all the negotiations of the Executive on the subject.
A convention for the settlement of important questions in relation to the North West coast of this continent and its adjoining seas was concluded and signed at St. Petersburg on the 5th day of April last by the minister plenipotentiary of the United States and plenipotentiaries of the Imperial Government of Russia. It will immediately be laid before the Senate for the exercise of the constitutional authority of that body with reference to its ratification. It is proper to add that the manner in which this negotiation was invited and conducted on the part of the Emperor has been very satisfactory.
The great and extraordinary changes which have happened in the Governments of Spain and Portugal within the last two years, without seriously affecting the friendly relations which under all of them have been maintained with those powers by the United States, have been obstacles to the adjustment of the particular subjects of discussion which have arisen with each. A resolution of the Senate adopted at their last session called for information as to the effect produced upon our relations with Spain by the recognition on the part of the United States of the independent South American Governments. The papers containing that information are now communicated to Congress.
A charge' d'affaires has been received from the independent Government of Brazil. That country, heretofore a colonial possession of Portugal, had some years since been proclaimed by the Sovereign of Portugal himself an independent Kingdom. Since his return to Lisbon a revolution in Brazil has established a new Government there with an imperial title, at the head of which is placed a prince, in whom the regency had been vested by the King at the time of his departure. There is reason to expect that by amicable negotiation the independence of Brazil will ere long be recognized by Portugal herself.
With the remaining powers of Europe, with those on the coast of Barbary, and with all the new South American States our relations are of a friendly character. We have ministers plenipotentiary residing with the Republics of Colombia and Chile, and have received ministers of the same rank from Columbia, Guatemala, Buenos Ayres, and Mexico. Our commercial relations with all those States are mutually beneficial and increasing. With the Republic of Colombia a treaty of commerce has been formed, of which a copy is received and the original daily expected. A negotiation for a like treaty would have been commenced with Buenos Ayres had it not been prevented by the indisposition and lamented decease of Mr. Rodney, our minister there, and to whose memory the most respectful attention has been shewn by the Government of that Republic. An advantageous alteration in our treaty with Tunis has been obtained by our consular agent residing there, the official document of which when received will be laid before the Senate.
The attention of the Government has been drawn with great solicitude to other subjects, and particularly to that relating to a state of maritime war, involving the relative rights of neutral and belligerent in such wars. Most of the difficulties which we have experienced and of the losses which we have sustained since the establishment of our independence have proceeded from the unsettled state of those rights and the extent to which the belligerent claim has been carried against the neutral party.
It is impossible to look back on the occurrences of the late wars in Europe, and to behold the disregard which was paid to our rights as a neutral power, and the waste which was made of our commerce by the parties to tho e wars by various acts of their respective Governments, and under the pretext by each that the other had set the example, without great mortification and a fixed purpose never to submit to the like in future. An attempt to remove those causes of possible variance by friendly negotiation and on just principles which should be applicable to all parties could, it was presumed, be viewed by none other than as a proof of an earnest desire to preserve those relations with every power.
In the late war between France and Spain a crisis occurred in which it seemed probable that all controvertible principles involved in such wars might be brought into discussion and settled to the satisfaction of all parties. Propositions having this object in view have been made to the Governments of Great Britain, France, Russia, and of other powers, which have been received in a friendly manner by all, but as yet no treaty has been formed with either for its accomplishment. The policy will, it is presumed, be persevered in, and in the hope that it may be successful.
It will always be recollected that with one of the parties to those wars and from whom we received those injuries, we sought redress by war. From the other, by whose then reigning Government our vessels were seized in port as well as at sea and their cargoes confiscated, indemnity has been expected, but has not yet been rendered. It was under the influence of the latter that our vessels were likewise seized by the Governments of Spain, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, and Naples, and from whom indemnity has been claimed and is still expected, with the exception of Spain, by whom it has been rendered.
With both parties we had abundant cause of war, but we had no alternative but to resist that which was most powerful at sea and pressed us nearest at home. With this all differences were settled by a treaty, founded on conditions fair and honorable to both, and which has been so far executed with perfect good faith. It has been earnestly hoped that the other would of its own accord, and from a sentiment of justice and conciliation, make to our citizens the indemnity to which they are entitled, and thereby remove from our relations any just cause of discontent on our side.
It is estimated that the receipts into the Treasury during the current year, exclusive of loans, will exceed $18.5M, which, with the sum remaining in the Treasury at the end of the last year, amounting to $9,463,922.81 will, after discharging the current disbursements of the year, the interest on the public debt, and upward of $11,633,011.52 of the principal, leave a balance of more than $3M in the Treasury on the first day of January next.
A larger amount of the debt contracted during the late war, bearing an interest of 6%, becoming redeemable in the course of the ensuing year than could be discharged by the ordinary revenue, the act of the 26th of May authorized a loan of $5M at 4.5% to meet the same. By this arrangement an annual saving will accrue to the public of $75,000.
Under the act of the 24th of May last a loan of $5M was authorized, in order to meet the awards under the Florida treaty, which was negotiated at par with the Bank of the United States at 4.5%, the limit of interest fixed by the act. By this provision the claims of our citizens who had sustained so great a loss by spoliations, and from whom indemnity had been so long withheld, were promptly paid. For these advances the public will be amply repaid at no distant day by the sale of the lands in Florida. Of the great advantages resulting from the acquisition of the Territory in other respects too high an estimate can not be formed.
It is estimated that the receipts into the Treasury during the year 1825 will be sufficient to meet the disbursements of the year, including the sum of $10M, which is annually appropriated by the act of constituting th sinking fund to the payment of the principal and interest of the public debt.
The whole amount of the public debt on the first of January next may be estimated at $86M, inclusive of $2.5M of the loan authorized by the act of the 26th of May last. In this estimate is included a stock of $7M, issued for the purchase of that amount of the capital stock of the Bank of the United States, and which, as the stock of the bank still held by the Government will at least be fully equal to its reimbursement, ought not to be considered as constituting a part of the public debt.
Estimating, then, the whole amount of the public debt at $79M and regarding the annual receipts and expenditures of the Government, a well-founded hope may be entertained that, should no unexpected event occur, the whole of the public debt may be discharged in the course of 10 years, and the Government be left at liberty thereafter to apply such portion of the revenue as may not be necessary for current expenses to such other objects as may be most conducive to the public security and welfare. That the sums applicable to these objects will be very considerable may be fairly concluded when it is recollected that a large amount of the public revenue has been applied since the late war to the construction of the public buildings in this city; to the erection of fortifications along the coast and of arsenals in different parts of the Union; to the augmentation of the Navy; to the extinguishment of the Indian title to large tracts of fertile territory; to the acquisition of Florida; to pensions to Revolutionary officers and soldiers, and to invalids of the late war.
On many of these objects the expense will annually be diminished and cease at no distant period on most of them.
The public debt amounted to $123,491,965.16, and, notwithstanding the large sums which have been applied to these objects, it has been reduced since that period $37,446,961.78. The last portion of the public debt will be redeemable on [1835-01-01], and, while there is the best reason to believe that the resources of the Government will be continually adequate to such portions of it as may become due in the interval, it is recommended to Congress to seize every opportunity which may present itself to reduce the rate of interest on every part thereof. The high state of the public credit and the great abundance of money are at this time very favorable to such a result. It must be very gratifying to our fellow citizens to witness this flourishing state of the public finances when it is recollected that no burthen whatever has been imposed upon them.
The military establishment in all its branches, in the performance of the various duties assigned to each, justifies the favorable view which was presented of the efficiency of its organization at the last session. All the appropriations have been regularly applied to the objects intended by Congress, and so far as the disbursements have been made the accounts have been rendered and settled without loss to the public.
The condition of the Army itself, as relates to the officers and men, in science and discipline is highly respectable. The Military Academy, on which the Army essentially rests, and to which it is much indebted for this state of improvement, has attained, in comparison with any other institution of a like kind, a high degree of perfection.
Experience, however, has shewn that the dispersed condition of the corps of artillery is unfavorable to the discipline of that important branch of the military establishment. To remedy this inconvenience, eleven companies have been assembled at the fortification erected at Old Point Comfort as a school for artillery instruction, with intention as they shall be perfected in the various duties of that service to order them to other posts, and, to supply their places with other companies for instruction in like manner. In this mode a complete knowledge of the science and duties of this arm will be extended throughout the whole corps of artillery. But to carry this object fully into effect will require the aid of Congress, to obtain which the subject is now submitted to your consideration.
Of the progress which has been made in the construction of fortifications for the permanent defense of our maritime frontier, according to the plan decided on and to the extent of the existing appropriations, the report of the Secretary of War, which is herewith communicated, will give a detailed account. Their final completion can not fail to give great additional security to that frontier, and to diminish proportionably the expense of defending it in the event of war.
The provisions in several acts of Congress of the last session for the improvement of the navigation of the Mississippi and the Ohio, of the harbor of Presqu'isle, on Lake Erie, and the repair of the Plymouth beach are in a course of regular execution; and there is reason to believe that the appropriation in each instance will be adequate to the object. To carry these improvements fully into effect, the superintendence of them has been assigned to officers of the Corps of Engineers.
Under the act of 30th April last, authorizing the President to cause a survey to be made, with the necessary plans and estimates, of such roads and canals as he might deem of national importance in a commercial or military point of view, or for the transportation of the mail, a board has been instituted, consisting of two distinguished officers of the Corps of Engineers and a distinguished civil engineer, with assistants, who have been actively employed in carrying into effect the object of the act. They have carefully examined the route between the Potomac and the Ohio rivers; between the latter and Lake Erie; between the Alleghany and the Susquehannah; and the routes between the Delaware and the Raritan, Barnstable and Buzzards Bay, and between Boston Harbor and Narraganset Bay. Such portion of the Corps of Topographical Engineers as could be spared from the survey of the coast has been employed in surveying the very important route between the Potomac and the Ohio. Considerable progress has been made in it, but the survey can not be completed until the next season. It is gratifying to add, from the view already taken, that there is good cause to believe that this great national object may be fully accomplished.
It is contemplated to commence early in the next season the execution of the other branch of the act — that which relates to roads — and with the survey of a route from this city, through the Southern States, to New Orleans, the importance of which can not be too highly estimated. All the officers of both the corps of engineers who could be spared from other services have been employed in exploring and surveying the routes for canals. to digest a plan for both objects for the great purposes specified will require a thorough knowledge of every part of our Union and of the relation of each part to the others and of all to the seat of the General Government. For such a digest it will be necessary that the information be full, minute, and precise.
With a view to these important objects, I submit to the consideration of the Congress the propriety of enlarging both the corps of engineers — the military and topographical. It need scarcely be remarked that the more extensively these corps are engaged in the improvement of their country, in the execution of the powers of Congress, and in aid of the States in such improvements as lie beyond that limit, when such aid is desired, the happier the effect will be in many views of which the subject is perceptible. By profiting of their science the works will always be well executed, and by giving to the officers such employment our Union will derive all the advantage, in peace as well as in war, from their talents and services which they can afford. In this mode, also, the military will be incorporated with the civil, and unfounded and injurious distinctions and prejudices of every kind be done away. To the corps themselves this service can not fail to be equally useful, since by the knowledge they would thus acquire they would be eminently better qualified in the event of war for the great purposes for which they were instituted.
Our relations with the Indian tribes within our limits have not been materially changed during the year. The hostile disposition evinced by certain tribes on the Missouri during the last year still continues, and has extended in some degree to those on the Upper Mississippi and the Upper Lakes. Several parties of our citizens have been plundered and murdered by those tribes. In order to establish relations of friendship with them, Congress at the last session made an appropriation for treaties with them and for the employment of a suitable military escort to accompany and attend the commissioners at the places appointed for the negotiations. This object has not been effected. The season was too far advanced when the appropriation was made and the distance too great to permit it, but measures have been taken, and all the preparations will be completed to accomplish it at an early period in the next season.
Believing that the hostility of the tribes, particularly on the Upper Mississippi and the Lakes, is in no small degree owing to the wars which are carried on between the tribes residing in that quarter, measures have been taken to bring about a general peace among them, which, if successful, will not only tend to the security of our citizens, but be of great advantage to the Indians themselves.
With the exception of the tribes referred to, our relations with all the others are on the same friendly footing, and it affords me great satisfaction to add that they are making steady advances in civilization and the improvement of their condition. Many of the tribes have already made great progress in the arts of civilized life. This desirable result has been brought about by the humane and persevering policy of the Government, and particularly by means of the appropriation for the civilization of the Indians. There have been established under the provisions of this act 32 schools, containing 916 scholars, who are well instructed in several branches of literature, and likewise in agriculture and the ordinary arts of life.
Under the appropriation to authorize treaties with the Creeks and Quaupaw Indians commissioners have been appointed and negotiations are now pending, but the result is not yet known.
For more full information respecting the principle which has been adopted for carrying into effect the act of Congress authorizing surveys, with plans and estimates for canals and roads, and on every other branch of duty incident to the Department of War, I refer you to the report of the Secretary.
The squadron in the Mediterranean has been maintained in the extent which was proposed in the report of the Secretary of the Navy of the last year, and has afforded to our commerce the necessary protection in that sea. Apprehending, however, that the unfriendly relations which have existed between Algiers and some of the powers of Europe might be extended to us, it has been thought expedient to augment the force there, and in consequence the North Carolina, a ship of the line, has been prepared, and will sail in a few days to join it.
The force employed in the Gulf of Mexico and in the neighboring seas for the suppression of piracy has likewise been preserved essentially in the state in which it was during the last year. A persevering effort has been made for the accomplishment of that object, and much protection has thereby been afforded to our commerce, but still the practice is far from being suppressed. From every view which has been taken of the subject it is thought that it will be necessary rather to augment than to diminish our force in that quarter.
There is reason to believe that the piracies now complained of are committed by bands of robbers who inhabit the land, and who, by preserving good intelligence with the towns and seizing favorable opportunities, rush forth and fall on unprotected merchant vessels, of which they make an easy prey. The pillage thus taken they carry to their lurking places, and dispose of afterwards at prices tending to seduce the neighboring population.
This combination is understood to be of great extent, and is the more to be deprecated because the crime of piracy is often attended with the murder of the crews, these robbers knowing if any survived their lurking places would be exposed and they be caught and punished. That this atrocious practice should be carried to such extent is cause of equal surprise and regret. It is presumed that it must be attributed to the relaxed and feeble state of the local governments, since it is not doubted, from the high character of the governor of Cuba, who is well known and much respected here, that if he had the power he would promptly suppress it. Whether those robbers should be pursued on the land, the local authorities be made responsible for these atrocities, or any other measure be resorted to to suppress them, is submitted to the consideration of Congress.
In execution of the laws for the suppression of the slave trade a vessel has been occasionally sent from that squadron to the coast of Africa with orders to return thence by the usual track of the slave ships, and to seize any of our vessels which might be engaged in that trade. None have been found, and it is believed that none are thus employed. It is well known, however, that the trade still exists under other flags.
The health of our squadron while at Thompsons Island has been much better during the present than it was the last season. Some improvements have been made and others are contemplated there which, it is believed, will have a very salutary effect.
On the Pacific, our commerce has much increased, and on that coast, as well as on that sea, the United States have many important interests which require attention and protection. It is thought that all the considerations which suggested the expediency of placing a squadron on that sea operate with augmented force for maintaining it there, at least in equal extent.
For detailed information respecting the state of our maritime force on each sea, the improvement necessary to be made on either in the organization of the naval establishment generally, and of the laws for its better government I refer you to the report of the Secretary of the Navy, which is herewith communicated.
The revenue of the Post Office Department has received a considerable augmentation in the present year. The current receipts will exceed the expenditures, although the transportation of the mail within the year has been much increased. A report of the PostMaster General, which is transmitted, will furnish in detail the necessary information respecting the administration and present state of this Department.
In conformity with a resolution of Congress of the last session, an invitation was given to General Lafayette to visit the United States, with an assurance that a ship of war should attend at any port of France which he might designate, to receive and convey him across the Atlantic, whenever it might be convenient for him to sail. He declined the offer of the public ship from motives of delicacy, but assured me that he had long intended and would certainly visit our Union in the course of the present year.
In August last he arrived at New York, where he was received with the warmth of affection and gratitude to which his very important and disinterested services and sacrifices in our Revolutionary struggle so eminently entitled him. A corresponding sentiment has since been manifested in his favor throughout every portion of our Union, and affectionate invitations have been given him to extend his visits to them. To these he has yielded all the accommodation in his power. At every designated point of rendezvous the whole population of the neighboring country has been assembled to greet him, among whom it has excited in a peculiar manner the sensibility of all to behold the surviving members of our Revolutionary contest, civil and military, who had shared with him in the toils and dangers of the war, many of them in a decrepit state. A more interesting spectacle, it is believed, was never witnessed, because none could be founded on purer principles, none proceed from higher or more disinterested motives. That the feelings of those who had fought and bled with him in a common cause should have been much excited was natural.
There are, however, circumstances attending these interviews which pervaded the whole community and touched the breasts of every age, even the youngest among us. There was not an individual present who had not some relative who had not partaken in those scenes, nor an infant who had not heard the relation of them. But the circumstance which was most sensibly felt, and which his presence brought forcibly to the recollection of all, was the great cause in which we were engaged and the blessings which we have derived from our success in it.
The struggle was for independence and liberty, public and personal, and in this we succeeded. The meeting with one who had borne so distinguished a part in that great struggle, and from such lofty and disinterested motives, could not fail to affect profoundly every individual and of every age. It is natural that we should all take a deep interest in his future welfare, as we do. His high claims on our Union are felt, and the sentiment universal that they should be met in a generous spirit. Under these impressions I invite your attention to the subject, with a view that, regarding his very important services, losses, and sacrifices, a provision may be made and tendered to him which shall correspond with the sentiments and be worthy the character of the American people.
In turning our attention to the condition of the civilized world, in which the United States have always taken a deep interest, it is gratifying to see how large a portion of it is blessed with peace. The only wars which now exist within that limit are those between Turkey and Greece, in Europe, and between Spain and the new Governments, our neighbors, in this hemisphere. In both these wars the cause of independence, of liberty and humanity, continues to prevail.
The success of Greece, when the relative population of the contending parties is considered, commands our admiration and applause, and that it has had a similar effect with the neighboring powers is obvious. The feeling of the whole civilized world is excited in a high degree in their favor. May we not hope that these sentiments, winning on the hearts of their respective Governments, may lead to a more decisive result; that they may produce an accord among them to replace Greece on the ground which she formerly held, and to which her heroic exertions at this day so eminently entitle her?
With respect to the contest to which our neighbors are a party, it is evident that Spain as a power is scarcely felt in it. These new States had completely achieved their independence before it was acknowledged by the United States, and they have since maintained it with little foreign pressure. The disturbances which have appeared in certain portions of that vast territory have proceeded from internal causes, which had their origin in their former Governments and have not yet been thoroughly removed.
It is manifest that these causes are daily losing their effect, and that these new States are settling down under Governments elective and representative in every branch, similar to our own. In this course we ardently wish them to persevere, under a firm conviction that it will promote their happiness. In this, their career, however, we have not interfered, believing that every people have a right to institute for themselves the government which, in their judgment, may suit them best.
Our example is before them, of the good effect of which, being our neighbors, they are competent judges, and to their judgment we leave it, in the expectation that other powers will pursue the same policy. The deep interest which we take in their independence, which we have acknowledged, and in their enjoyment of all the rights incident thereto, especially in the very important one of instituting their own Governments, has been declared, and is known to the world.
Separated as we are from Europe by the great Atlantic Ocean, we can have no concern in the wars of the European Governments nor in the causes which produce them. The balance of power between them, into whichever scale it may turn in its various vibrations, can not affect us. It is the interest of the United States to preserve the most friendly relations with every power and on conditions fair, equal, and applicable to all.
But in regard to our neighbors our situation is different. It is impossible for the European Governments to interfere in their concerns, especially in those alluded to, which are vital, without affecting us; indeed, the motive which might induce such interference in the present state of the war between the parties, if a war it may be called, would appear to be equally applicable to us. It is gratifying to know that some of the powers with whom we enjoy a very friendly intercourse, and to whom these views have been communicated, have appeared to acquiesce in them.
The augmentation of our population with the expansion of our Union and increased number of States have produced effects in certain branches of our system which merit the attention of Congress. Some of our arrangements, and particularly the judiciary establishment, were made with a view to the original 13 States only. Since then the United States have acquired a vast extent of territory; eleven new States have been admitted into the Union, and Territories have been laid off for three others, which will likewise be admitted at no distant day.
An organization of the Supreme Court which assigns the judges any portion of the duties which belong to the inferior, requiring their passage over so vast a space under any distribution of the States that may now be made, if not impracticable in the execution, must render it impossible for them to discharge the duties of either branch with advantage to the Union. The duties of the Supreme Court would be of great importance if its decisions were confined to the ordinary limits of other tribunals, but when it is considered that this court decides, and in the last resort, on all the great questions which arise under our Constitution, involving those between the United States individually, between the States and the United States, and between the latter and foreign powers, too high an estimate of their importance can not be formed. The great interests of the nation seem to require that the judges of the Supreme Court should be exempted from every other duty than those which are incident to that high trust. The organization of the inferior courts would of course be adapted to circumstances. It is presumed that such an one might be formed as would secure an able and faithful discharge of their duties, and without any material augmentation of expense.
The condition of the aborigines within our limits, and especially those who are within the limits of any of the States, merits likewise particular attention. Experience has shown that unless the tribes be civilized they can never be incorporated into our system in any form whatever. it has likewise shown that in the regular augmentation of our population with the extension of our settlements their situation will become deplorable, if their extinction is not menaced.
Some well-digested plan which will rescue them from such calamities is due to their rights, to the rights of humanity, and to the honor of the nation. Their civilization is indispensable to their safety, and this can be accomplished only by degrees. The process must commence with the infant state, through whom some effect may be wrought on the parental. Difficulties of the most serious character present themselves to the attainment of this very desirable result on the territory on which they now reside. To remove them from it by force, even with a view to their own security and happiness, would be revolting to humanity and utterly unjustifiable. Between the limits of our present States and Territories and the Rocky Mountains and Mexico there is a vast territory to which they might be invited with inducements which might be successful. It is thought if that territory should be divided into districts by previous agreement with the tribes now residing there and civil governments be established in each, with schools for every branch of instruction in literature and the arts of civilized life, that all the tribes now within our limits might gradually be drawn there. The execution of this plan would necessarily be attended with expense, and that not inconsiderable, but it is doubted whether any other can be devised which would be less liable to that objection or more likely to succeed.
In looking to the interests which the United States have on the Pacific Ocean and on the western coast of this continent, the propriety of establishing a military post at the mouth of the Columbia River, or at some other point in that quarter within our acknowledged limits, is submitted to the consideration of Congress. Our commerce and fisheries on that sea and along the coast have much increased and are increasing. It is thought that a military post, to which our ships of war might resort, would afford protection to every interest, and have a tendency to conciliate the tribes to the North West, with whom our trade is extensive. It is thought also that by the establishment of such a post the intercourse between our Western States and Territories and the Pacific and our trade with the tribes residing in the interior on each side of the Rocky Mountains would be essentially promoted. To carry this object into effect the appropriation of an adequate sum to authorize the employment of a frigate, with an officer of the Corps of Engineers, to explore the mouth of the Columbia River and the coast contiguous thereto, to enable the Executive to make such establishment at the most suitable point, is recommended to Congress.
It is thought that attention is also due to the improvement of this city. The communication between the public buildings and in various other parts and the grounds around those buildings require it. It is presumed also that the completion of the canal from the Tiber to the Eastern Branch would have a very salutary effect. Great exertions have been made and expenses incurred by the citizens in improvements of various kinds; but those which are suggested belong exclusively to the Government, or are of a nature to require expenditures beyond their resources. The public lots which are still for sale would, it is not doubted, be more than adequate for these purposes.
From the view above presented it is manifest that the situation of the United States is in the highest degree prosperous and happy. There is no object which as a people we can desire which we do not possess or which is not within our reach. Blessed with governments the happiest which the world ever knew, with no distinct orders in society or divided interests in any portion of the vast territory over which their dominion extends, we have every motive to cling together which can animate a virtuous and enlightened people. The great object is to preserve these blessings, and to hand them down to the latest posterity.
Our experience ought to satisfy us that our progress under the most correct and provident policy will not be exempt from danger. Our institutions form an important epoch in the history of the civilized world. On their preservation and in their utmost purity everything will depend. Extending as our interests do to every part of the inhabited globe and to every sea to which our citizens are carried by their industry and enterprise, to which they are invited by the wants of others, and have a right to go, we must either protect them in the enjoyment of their rights or abandon them in certain events to waste and desolation
Our attitude is highly interesting as relates to other powers, and particularly to our southern neighbors. We have duties to perform WRT all to which we must be faithful. To every kind of danger we should pay the most vigilant and unceasing attention, remove the cause where it may be practicable, and be prepared to meet it when inevitable.
Against foreign danger the policy of the Government seems to be already settled. The events of the late war admonished us to make our maritime frontier impregnable by a well-digested chain of fortifications, and to give efficient protection to our commerce by augmenting our Navy to a certain extent, which has been steadily pursued, and which it is incumbent upon us to complete as soon as circumstances will permit. In the event of war it is on the maritime frontier that we shall be assailed. It is in that quarter, therefore, that we should be prepared to meet the attack. It is there that our whole force will be called into action to prevent the destruction of our towns and the desolation and pillage of the interior.
To give full effect to this policy great improvements will be indispensable. Access to those works by every practicable communication should be made easy and in every direction. The intercourse between every part of our Union should also be promoted and facilitated by the exercise of those powers which may comport with a faithful regard to the great principles of our Constitution. With respect to internal causes, those great principles point out with equal certainty the policy to be pursued.
Resting on the people as our Governments do, State and National, with well-defined powers, it is of the highest importance that they severally keep within the limits prescribed to them. Fulfilling that sacred duty, it is of equal importance that the movement between them be harmonious, and in case of any disagreement, should any such occur, a calm appeal be made to the people, and that their voice be heard and promptly obeyed. Both Governments being instituted for the common good, we can not fail to prosper while those who made them are attentive to the conduct of their representatives and control their measures. In the pursuit of these great objects let a generous spirit and national views and feelings be indulged, and let every part recollect that by cherishing that spirit and improving the condition of the others in what relates to their welfare the general interest will not only be promoted, but the local advantage be reciprocated by all.
I can not conclude this communication, the last of the kind which I shall have to make, without recollecting with great sensibility and heart felt gratitude the many instances of the public confidence and the generous support which I have received from my fellow citizens in the various trusts with which I have been honored. Having commenced my service in early youth, and continued it since with few and short intervals, I have witnessed the great difficulties to which our Union has been surmounted. From the present prosperous and happy state I derive a gratification which I can not express. That these blessings may be preserved and perpetuated will be the object of my fervent and unceasing prayers to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe.
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From Ireland we fly to Manchester to visit with Gordon's family. I have a rule that I don't write about family and I don't write about friends. But I've never been very good with rules, even my own.
Gordon has a cousin, whom I shall call Fred, because that's his name. He is 92. He was great fun when he knew where he was and who we were, and he is still great fun now he remembers next to nothing. I know he wouldn't mind me writing about him. It would have made him laugh when he was the old Fred. And it will still make him laugh today if someone reads it to him and tells him that it is about him.
Fred's son, Tony, arranges for us to visit him at the home. Tony comes with his wife and daughter, and Graham, Gordon's brother, comes with his partner. We have a party on the lawn of the home, sitting under sun umbrellas on a perfect sunny morning.
We had arranged to get there at 11am and everyone arrives promptly, except Fred, who is still eating his breakfast when we arrive. He is delighted to see us because that's how he is. He actually remembers that Gordon and I are from America because Tony has been telling him everyday for the past week that we are coming. He remembers the America bit, but not who we are. But he doesn't mind. Nor do we.
Fred always had a wonderful sense of humour, and although his memory has left him, his humour has not. We all sit round in a circle chatting.
He pauses before the punch line, his delivery perfect, "It's waking up that I have difficulty with".
During a lull in the conversation, Tony asks Fred about his favourite member of staff at the home, a young attractive Thai woman who Fred loves to flirt with.
We all start laughing and Fred is delighted. He clearly loves having company and telling stories.
Outside we thank Tony and tell him how much fun the visit was.
Tony says that the sad thing is, that in five minutes Fred will have forgotten we have been.
We tell him it doesn't matter. Fred clearly enjoyed every moment.
At least his heart is light and his spirit is free. He is living the life he has now, and that cannot be a bad thing.
Wonderful story my friend, I hope your planning a book soon, can't wait to read it!
How sweet, and how fortunate you got to have that visit. He sounds like quite a character…..explains a lot about our dear Gordon.
Lovely tale. Hope someone is around to write such nice things about me.
Perfectly wonderful; I think Fred may be perfect for me.
What a lovely tribute to Fred. Thank you for sharing it.
what a moving account of a lovely visit. thank you for sharing it with us.
The guy is amazing and what a wonderful time he had with you all. Fred is quite something and so are the staff if he is that happy. You all gave him a most wonderful day .
I love Fred; I think I may have known him at an earlier date…..love you guys!
Everyone of us will become Fred, I just hope who ever writes my Fred is an Andrew or a Gordon ….
Mark, Be careful what you wish for!
Agree with Mark's comment, and just hope that I can have that pleasant disposition, and ability to participate for all to enjoy!!!
Fred sounds like a wonderful person. I was deeply touched and feel I was standing back watching and listening to his family.
back ground listening to his family.
Sad to hear that, I know you were very fond of him! What a good memorial and photo of a great character to remember.


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Noel D Preece is an environmental consultant who has consulted on major projects that involved land clearing. He has also received funding from the Australian Government's Biodiversity Fund for a rainforest restoration project. He has also been a Chief Investigator on an Australian Research Council Project, and a contributing Linkage Partner on another ARC project. He is a Councillor on the Ecosystem Science Council, and a Director of the Ecological Society of Australia.
Penny van Oosterzee is a partner in an Australian Research Council project on rainforest restoration. She has received funding from the Biodiversity Fund also for rainforest restoration.
Whichever way you look at it, there is not a lot of sense in continued clearing. Australia already has some of the highest extinction rates on the planet for plants and animals. With 80% of Queensland's threatened species living in forest and woodland, more clearing will certainly increase that rate.
Clearing also kills tens of millions of animals across Australia each year, a major animal welfare concern that rarely receives attention. This jeopardises both wildlife and the A$140 million invested in threatened species recovery.
This rate of clearing neutralises our major environment programs. Just one year of clearing has removed more trees than the bulk of 20 million trees painstakingly planted, at a cost of A$50 million. Australia's major environment programs simply can't keep up, and since 2013 are restoring only one-tenth of the extent of land bulldozed just last year.
Restoration costs to improve the quality of waters running onto the Great Barrier Reef are estimated at around A$5 billion to A$10 billion over 10 years. Nearly 40% of the land cleared in Queensland is in reef catchments, which will reverse any water quality gains as sediment pours onto the reef.
Since 2014, the federal government has invested A$2.55 billion on reducing emissions in the Carbon Farming Initiative through the Emissions Reduction Fund. Currently 189 million tonnes of abatement has been delivered by the Emissions Reduction Fund. This – the central plank of the Australian government's climate response – will be all but nullified by the end of 2018 with the current clearing rates, and will certainly be wiped out by 2020, when Australia is expected to meet its climate target of 5% below 2000 emissions.
Ironically, this target will be achieved with the help of carried-over results from the first commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol, which Australia was only able to meet because land clearing had decreased between 1990 and 1997.
Most of the clearing in Queensland since 1999 has been for pasture. Most good cropping land was cleared decades ago. Removing trees in more marginal lands can increase the carrying capacity for a short time with an immediate, and usually short-lived, financial reward. These rewards come at the expense of long-term sustainability, which future landholders and government will bear.
Large areas of the cleared lands have been subject to substantial erosion and nutrient loss from the newly cleared lands, and land degradation over time, and some areas have suffered massive woody weed incursions.
This is playing out today across the north where pastoralism is a marginal activity at best, with declining terms of trade of about 2% per year, with no net productivity growth, high average debts and low returns, and many enterprises facing insolvency. Clearing vegetation won't change that.
A recent preliminary valuation of ecosystem services, on the other hand, estimated that uncleared lands are worth A$3,300-$6,100 per hectare per year to the Australian community, compared with productivity of grazing lands of A$18 per hectare.
With a clear divide between the policies Labor and the LNP are taking to the election, now is a good time to give land clearing's social, economic and environmental impact the scrutiny it deserves.
This article was updated on November 21 to reflect that land clearing increased in by a third in 2015-16 over 2014-15 levels. Previously the article stated an increase of 133%.


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