Charles Simmins

Charles Simmins

Charles Simmins is a native Western New Yorker with nearly thirty years of experience at senior level accounting positions in non-profit and for profit organizations. He was a volunteer firefighter, and a volunteer EMT for fourteen years.

Currently he is a freelance writer and publishes an on-line magazine, America's North Shore Journal. He is a long time participant in the Defense Department's bloggers' outreach program.

He is married and is presently owned by four cats.

Twitter: @CharlesSimmins
Facebook: /chuck.simmins
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  • Nebraska Nuclear Plant Faces Missouri River Flood Fight
    6/17/2011
    Nineteen miles upstream from Omaha, Neb., is the Fort Calhoun nuclear power plant. The flood waters have not completely surrounded the plant but it is shut down at this time.
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  • Marines Name Female General to Command Parris Island
    6/17/2011
    Parris Island is the legendary East Coast home for U.S. Marine Corps recruit training. Brigadier General Lori Reynolds, one of only three female Marine Corps generals, assumed command of MCRD Parris Island on June 17.
  • Weiner Resignation Adds to Reapportionment Confusion
    6/17/2011
    Based upon the 2010 census, New York will have to lose two Congressional districts. Which two has been the subject of some debate. NY-9 enters that mix with the resignation of Anthony Weiner.
  • Wallow Fire in Arizona Still Growing
    6/14/2011
    The Wallow wildfire continues to rage along the Arizona / New Mexico border. At 469,000 plus acres and still growing, it is the largest wildfire in Arizona history.
  • Army Corps of Engineers Using Dams and Levees in Missouri River Flood Fight
    6/14/2011
    The Army Corps of Engineers has spent billions of dollars constructing dams and levees along the Missouri River. The record rains and snow melt this year are testing the limits of those flood controls.
  • Western New York Women Who Died for Us All
    6/14/2011
    The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have cost the lives of thousands of young men. Women have also died in the service of the United States, including three from western New York. One will be buried on Saturday.
  • Missouri River Basin Filling with Flooding
    6/12/2011
    The Missouri River is the longest river in North America. Though the Army Corps of Engineers has constructed massive flood control projects along its length, this year's exceptional rain and snow pack melt are testing the limits of flood control.
  • Extreme Drought Conditions Drive Arizona Wildfires
    6/12/2011
    Two large wildfires rage along the Arizona / New Mexico border where drought conditions range from extreme to exceptional. The Wallow and the Horseshoe 2 fires have consumed a total of 543,000 acres and 38 homes.
  • Army Engineers, National Guard Fight Missouri River Flooding
    6/9/2011
    The Army Corps of Engineers flood control dams and levees along the Missouri River face one of their most serious tests in the next several weeks. Snow melt and heavy rain have filled the streams of the Missouri River basin to overflowing.
  • New York -- Get Your Sex Scandals Here
    6/8/2011
    New York may not lead the nation in many things anymore but it may lead in political sex scandals. What other state can compete with the likes of Spitzer, Massa, Lee and Weiner?
  • What is the Source of the German E. Coli Outbreak?
    6/7/2011
    Several weeks into a massive outbreak of illness caused by the E. coli bacteria, German authorities are no closer to determining the source. The numbers of those ill or dead continue to grow.
  • Navy Sailing in Troubled Waters
    6/7/2011
    The USS Chung-Hoon, a guided-missile destroyer, has been deployed to the South China Sea as a reaction to recent tensions in the region. Chinese naval activities and several one shooting incidents have created international concerns.
  • May 2011 Unemployment Numbers Discouraging
    6/3/2011
    The Bureau of Labor Statistics has release its report on the May 2011 unemployment numbers. Buried in them are some discouraging facts. Hardcore unemployment is not going away.
  • E. Coli Outbreak in Europe Growing
    6/2/2011
    The current outbreak of E. coli illness in Germany and in other parts of Western Europe, seems to be caused by a rare strain of the bacteria. The illness has a much higher rate of complications and death. The source has not yet been located.
  • Study Says Cellphones as Risky as Drinking Coffee
    6/1/2011
    The International Agency for Research on Cancer has released a study reviewing existing literature for evidence that exposure to cellphone radiation causes cancer. Their conclusion is that evidence is limited or inadequate to support such a determination.
  • Killer Cucumbers Not to Blame for German Illnesses
    6/1/2011
    A diarrheal illness caused by a strain of the E. coli is worrying German public health officials. The rate of serious complications and related deaths is much higher than expected for such an outbreak. The source is unknown.
  • North Dakota National Guard Fights Flooding on Missouri and Souris
    6/1/2011
    The North Dakota National Guard has activated many of its units for the second time this year to fight flooding in western and central North Dakota. Williston, Minot and Bismark are among the communities facing a serious flood threat.
  • Japanese Nuclear Disaster Forgotten but Not Gone
    6/1/2011
    The nuclear disaster that occurred at the Japanese Fukushima site after the March earthquake and tsunami continues to unfold. A near miss by a super typhoon is just the latest problem to appear in the recovery efforts.
  • Congressman Weiner Twitter Scandal Erupts Over Holiday Weekend
    5/31/2011
    Anthony Weiner is a Democratic Congressman, representing NY's 9th District. Over the Memorial Day weekend, a lewd photo was linked to on his Twitter account. He says he was hacked.
  • Joplin Tornado Claims Local Off-Duty Guardsman
    5/31/2011
    As the members of the Missouri National Guard continue their work in the stricken city of Joplin, they are mindful of the loss of one of their own. The tornado of May 22 killed Guardsman Dennis M. Osborn, who leaves behind a wife, son and daughter.
  • Battling Over the Joint Strike Fighter Engine
    5/25/2011
    The General Electric/Rolls Royce partnership to build the engine for the next American strike fighter, the F-3e5, has announced that it is will to self-fund the remainder of the program. Should a two source engine model be approved?
  • Missouri National Guard Responding to Joplin Tornado
    5/24/2011
    Joplin, Missouri, experienced a massive tornado in the late afternoon of May 22. Within hours, the Missouri National Guard had begun deploying to the stricken city.
  • Mississippi Flooding May Have Little Effect on Delta Wetlands
    5/24/2011
    The ecology of the Louisiana river deltas are a complex mix of plants and animals living in a wetland fed by rivers and ocean tides. The record flooding may have little effect, according to two biologists from Louisiana's Fish & Wildlife Service.
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  • Africa Command Trains Medics in Malawi
    5/20/2011
    From May 3-18, the U.S. Africa Command ran a medical exercise with the Defense Forces of Malawi. The tiny African nation's army participated in an exercise titled MEDREACH 11 with a number of U.S. military units.
  • Louisiana National Guard Still Engaged in Mississippi Flood Fight
    5/19/2011
    The Louisiana National Guard has over 1,100 men and women called to duty for the Mississippi flood emergency. They are active statewide with flood protection and other support activities.
  • Special Election in New York Down to the Wire
    5/17/2011
    The special election to fill the vacant 26th Congressional District seat in N.Y. will be held May 24. The election may be closer than anticipated by Republicans.
  • Mississippi Flood Threatens Angola Prison
    5/17/2011
    The Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola is surrounded on three sides by the record flood of the Mississippi River. The flood crest is expected to fall short of the levee top, but some inmates have been moved as a precaution.
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  • Morganza Floodway Filling to Save the Cities
    5/16/2011
    The opening of the Morganza Floodway on Saturday, May 14, for the first time since 1973, is intended to divert the flooding Mississippi. The goal is to preserve the industries along the lower Mississippi and the cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
  • Buffalo and New York City Have Differing Rates of Gun Violence
    5/15/2011
    The CDC has just published a study of the homicides and suicides in the fifty largest metropolitan statistical areas in the U.S. Both Buffalo and New York City appear in this study, with vastly different results.
  • Southern Louisiana Faces Mississippi Flooding
    5/14/2011
    With the opening of the Morganza flood control structures sometime today, the Mississippi riverside communities and industrial plants from Baton Rouge south may be spared the worst of the record flooding. The area west of the river will not be spared.
  • National Guard Pitching In to Mississippi River Flood Fight
    5/12/2011
    As the Mississippi flood of 2011 rolls south, the various states affected are asking their National Guard to help. The men and women of the Guard are involved in every aspect of the flood fight.
  • Army Corps of Engineers in Mississippi River Flood Fight
    5/11/2011
    The Army Corps of Engineers is facing one of its greatest challenges in the next several days. The record flooding on the Mississippi River is moving south and threatens more cities and more property. The Corps works to prevent that threat.
  • Samoa Might Adjust Time to Trade Ties
    5/9/2011
    The island kingdom of Samoa is changing its time to reflect changing times. It is changing its official time zone to the opposite side of the International Date Line to allow closer ties to trading partners.
  • Floodwaters Continue South Down Mississippi
    5/9/2011
    As major Mississippi River flooding flows southward, cities such as Memphis and Vicksburg battle the rising water. New Orleans prepares for its bout with the flood.
  • Upstate New York Flooding Continues
    5/8/2011
    The Lake Champlain region separates New York and Vermont. In the last two weeks, the excess rainfall in the region has caused the lake and its sister, Lake George, to swell several feet beyond flood stage.
  • Fragile Progress Builds Momentum in Afghanistan
    5/5/2011
    Maj. Gen. Richard Mills spoke with reporters recently, a few weeks after the Department of Defense released its semi-annual report on progress in Afghanistan. Mills discussed progress in areas where the Marine Corps is operating.
  • April Tornado Outbreak Included New York State
    5/4/2011
    There were 305 tornadoes in the outbreak that occurred April 25 to April 28, 2011. At least 340 people were killed. New York State did not escape the storms.
  • Pippa Middleton -- Maid of Honor
    5/2/2011
    27 year old Pippa Middleton caught the public's attention as the maid of honor at her sister's wedding to the future King of England last weekend. Her good looks and her designer gown created a stir among those who normally do not follow the royals.
  • Bin Laden Raid Echoes Past Raids on Foreign Soil
    5/2/2011
    The raid by U.S. Navy SEALS that killed Osama bi Laden on Sunday was risky. In the past, such raids have a mixed record of success. The heroism of the participants is undeniable but the cost can be extreme.
  • Army Engineers Building a New Afghanistan
    4/29/2011
    The Army Corps of Engineers is best known in the U.S. for flood control projects such as dams and levees. In Afghanistan, they are building the backbone of a nation.
  • Shooting Clouds Afghan Air Force Progress
    4/27/2011
    About 10:30 am, Wednesday, April 27, troops responded to a report of small arms fire at the North Kabul International Airport. Reports are that an Afghan Air Force officer shot and killed nine people at the air base located there.
  • Air Force Attacks Texas Wildfires
    4/27/2011
    Texas leads the nation this year in the size and severity of wildfires. Over 1.9 million acres have burned and firefighters have called upon the U.S. Air Force for assistance. C-130 aircraft are dropping fire retardant aiding ground firefighting efforts.
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  • How Errors Enter Genealogy Research
    4/26/2011
    Researching a family tree is never easy. Errors and omissions are easily made. Here are some observations of some of the common pitfalls.
  • New York Water Power Generates Green Electricity on Earth Day, Year-Round
    4/22/2011
    The massive dams in the Western United States generate large quantities of electricity. Little known, though, is that New York state is fourth nationally in that category and without such massive structures being necessary.
  • Defense Department Advancing Care for Traumatic Brain Injuries
    4/22/2011
    Traumatic brain injuries affect millions of Americans each year. Called the "signature wound" of the War on Terror, the U.S. military continues to lead in research, care and support for the caregivers of those inured.
  • Afghan Army Sees Slow but Sure Progress Over Last 18 Months
    4/22/2011
    In the 18 months since the NATO Training Mission - Afghanistan began its work, the capacities and abilities of the Afghan Army have shown steady improvement. As the country assumes security responsibilities for some areas, its forces are ready.
  • Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Watch Over Army Soldiers
    4/20/2011
    Army UAV operators briefed reporters today on the US Army's use of drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles in areas such as Iraq or Afghanistan. The six UAVs in use provide for both greater combat effectiveness and increased soldier safety.
  • The Long Island Serial Killer is Not Alone
    4/16/2011
    Attention this past week has focused on the seaside marshes of Long island where more bodies have been discovered. At least one, and possible two, serial killers have been using the area to dump the bodies of their victims.
  • Air France Jumbo Jet Clips Delta Plane at Gate
    4/12/2011
    Just after 8 pm on Monday, April 11, Air France Flight 7 struck a Delta Connection aircraft while taxiing to a runway at New York's John F. Kennedy airport. The Delta flight, operated by Comair, was at or close to a gate.
  • Could Taxing the Rich Solve the Federal Budget Deficit?
    4/11/2011
    The populist notion that the rich do not pay their fair share of taxes leads to the suggestion that their taxes be increased until they do. Is that a solution to the budget woes in Washington?
  • Basic Supplies for Starting a Small Business
    4/9/2011
    A small business start-up should never overlook the basics: the materials and equipment that will be necessary for the business to continue past day one. It will surprise you to know how few supplies you need to start a business.
  • Supplying Our War Fighters
    4/6/2011
    Logistics is the art and science of supply. Major General Kenneth Dowd briefed reporters today on how his command is providing our warfighters with what they need.
  • Marines Land on Oshima to Provide Aid
    4/4/2011
    The island of Oshima, Japan, is home to some 3,000 people. The March 11 tsunami washed across much of the island, leaving it in ruins. The Marines of the 31st MEU have responded with aid.
  • Dengue Fever Outbreak Hits Hawaii
    4/3/2011
    Hawaii has become the second United States state to suffer an outbreak of locally acquired dengue fever. Four cases are confirmed and another dozen are suspected. Florida had 63 locally acquired cases in 2010.
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  • Unemployment Numbers Mixed for March
    4/1/2011
    The March 2011 unemployment numbers have been released by the Labor Department. The data contain few surprises and fewer hints as to the economy's future direction.
  • Candidates Set for NY-26 Special Election
    4/1/2011
    On May 24 the voters of New York's 26th Congressional District will choose a successor to disgraced Congressman Chris Lee. The seat has been vacant since Lee resigned in early February.
  • Monday's Naval Battle Ends Badly for Libya
    3/30/2011
    In one of the most unusual combat actions of modern times, the U.S. employed a tank killing aircraft and a sub hunter aircraft to end a Libyan attack on civilian shipping.
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  • U.S. Military as a Force for Good
    3/28/2011
    The recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan is just the latest disaster that the United States military has responded to. Their response to disasters makes them a force for good in the world.
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  • New York State Pols Reach Budget Agreement
    3/28/2011
    New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and the leaders of the State Senate and the Assembly have announced an agreement on the 2011-2012 state budget. The new budget year begins April 1.
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  • United States Military Continues Relief Operations in Japan
    3/28/2011
    The U.S. continues relief operations in Japan after the earthquake and tsunami. The military calls their efforts Operation Tomodachi. Over 18,000 troops are involved.
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  • Voluntary Departures from Japan for Military Dependents Continue
    3/23/2011
    Several hundred dependents of American military personnel have already arrived in the United States as part of a voluntary departure program. The Department of Defense authorized this activity for dependents living in select areas of Japan.
  • New Zealand Still Recovering from February Earthquake
    3/23/2011
    While the headlines are preoccupied with news about the war in Libya and the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, the people of New Zealand continue their earthquake recovery.
  • Democrats Select Kathleen Hochul to Run for Congress
    3/21/2011
    The special election to fill the Congressional seat left vacant by Cris Lee's resignation is set for May 24. Both major parties have now selected their candidates. The campaigning begins.
  • U.S. Military Strikes Loyalist Forces in Libya
    3/20/2011
    The United State military is an integral part of the coalition enforcing UN resolution 1973 against the loyalist troops of Libyan dictator Col. Moammar Gadhafi.
  • Is Japanese Culture Worsening the Nuclear Crisis?
    3/18/2011
    Japanese culture has a set of norms that are very different from those in the West. These norms affect the way the Japanese respond to disaster.
  • Air Force's Unique Aircraft Assist in Japan Relief Mission
    3/18/2011
    The United States Air Force has assets to perform recon and surveillance missions unlike those of any other air force in the world. Those assets are featured in the Air Force's mission to assist Japan after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.
  • I Agree with Charlie Sheen
    3/17/2011
    Charlie Sheen is many things to many people. His media blitz over the last two weeks has contained some important but ignored truths about his public perception.
  • Defense and State Departments Allow U.S. Dependents to Leave Bahrain
    3/16/2011
    With a security clampdown in place, the U.S. State Department and the Defense Department are allowing American dependents to leave Bahrain at government expense. No mandatory evacuation order is in place at this time.
  • Could Japanese Nuclear Disaster Happen in New York State?
    3/16/2011
    The explosions and fires at the nuclear reactors in the Fukushima Daiichi complex after the March 11 earthquake and tsunami are creating concerns about the nuclear industry worldwide. New York State has six operating reactors. How safe are they?
  • What Happened when We Went from Family Doctor to Family Practice?
    3/16/2011
    Fifty years ago, a family doctor did everything, x-rays, lab work and he made house calls. Medical care has improved over the years but have the costs exceeded the benefits?
  • Japan's Nuclear Emergency Tied to Tsunami
    3/12/2011
    At least five nuclear reactors at two different sites on the east coast of Japan are in emergency status because of cooling failures within their systems. The potential for a meltdown or a release of radioactive material exists.
  • Navy Ships Move to Assist Stricken Japan
    3/11/2011
    US Navy ships and personnel are moving to provide assistance to the survivors of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan today. Both ships stationed in Japan and ships of the Seventh Fleet are responding.
  • U.S. Military Responds to Japanese Quake
    3/11/2011
    An earthquake measuring 8.9 magnitude struck Japan just before 3 pm their time on Friday, march 11. A tsunami was generated. U.S. military across the Pacific have taken steps for protection and to prepare to assist with disaster relief.
  • More New York Pols Accused of Corruption
    3/10/2011
    The number of state politicians charged with crimes continues to grow. Assemblyman William Boyland, Jr. and State Senator Carl Kruger have been charged with a number of offenses in a Federal criminal indictment unsealed Thursday.
  • First Person: The Financial Side of Catastrophe
    3/10/2011
    Not many people think about what would happen to their lives if a disaster happened. Some have a firm reliance on insurance. Others embrace a combination of hope and denial.
  • New York's 26th Congressional District Special Election Set
    3/10/2011
    Governor Cuomo has announced the date for the special election to fill the vacant 26th Congressional District seat. He made the announcement Wednesday after signing legislation bringing the timing into compliance with Federal law.
  • White House Mulls Use of Strategic Petroleum Reserve
    3/8/2011
    On "Meet the Press" this past Sunday, White House Chief of Staff William Daley was asked about the possibility of tapping the nation's Strategic Petroleum Reserve to arrest the current spike in crude oil prices. He replied that it is being considered.
  • Could Raising Taxes Close the New York Budget Gap?
    3/7/2011
    Heated protests last week about proposed cuts to the New York State budget resulted in arrests. The protesters believe that raising taxes on the wealthy will prevent cuts. Will it?
  • After 200 Years, Navy and Marines Still Battling Pirates
    3/7/2011
    The USS Bulkeley is the latest Navy ship to take on the pirate menace in the waters between Somalia and Yemen. Boarding teams have freed a merchant ship and captured four suspected pirates, without injuries or shots being fired.
  • Air Force Begins Libyan Refugee Relief Efforts
    3/4/2011
    United States Air Force cargo aircraft have arrived in Tunisia with relief supplies for the 90,000 refugees from Libya estimated to be in the country. The refugees fled the civil war in Libya over the last weeks.
  • February Unemployment Numbers Not Good News
    3/4/2011
    The headline for February 2011 unemployment is that non farm payrolls increased by 192,000 and the unemployment rate dropped to 8.9%. The headlines do not say why, and that is the bad news.
  • Airmen Killed in Frankfurt Airport Shooting
    3/2/2011
    Two serving airmen of the U.S. Air Force are dead and two wounded in a shooting in the Frankfurt, Germany international airport. A native of Kosovo has been named as the primary suspect.
  • U.S. Navy Ships Close on Libya
    3/2/2011
    Two U.S. Navy ships, the USS Kearsarge and the USS Ponce, have been sent to the waters off the Libyan Coast. They and the Marine force aboard are being positioned in the event it is necessary to intervene in the civil war currently underway.
  • Arab Turmoil Profiled -- From West to East
    3/1/2011
    From the Atlantic to the Indian Oceans, protests are rocking Arab nations. Single party government and royal decrees are both under fire. The mythic Arab Street is making itself heard.
  • Amid Bahrain Protests, Chairman of U.S. Joint Chiefs Visits
    2/26/2011
    The protests in the tiny island nation of Bahrain continue. Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the highest ranking member of the U.S.'s military, visited troops station in that country and met with Bahraini defense officials.
  • Managing New York's Budget by Capping Medicaid
    2/26/2011
    The medical costs in New York State's Medicaid budget represent the largest single item in the state's budget. Governor Andrew Cuomo's Medicaid Redesign Team has offered 73 proposals to address that spending.
  • As Libya Revolts, Gaddafi Blames Al Qaeda and Bin Laden
    2/24/2011
    Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi addressed the nation and the world this morning. He stood firm against the revolt that has swept his nation, blaming al Qaeda, drugs and Israeli brainwashing.
  • Saudi Native Arrested in Texas for WMD Plot
    2/24/2011
    The FBI has announced the arrest of Khalid Ali-M Aldawsari, a 20-year-old native of Saudi Arabia and a college student in Lubbock, Texas, on charges of the attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction. The arrest was made on Feb. 23, 2011.
  • Army Sergeant Wins 2010 Grammy
    2/24/2011
    Staff Sgt. Brandie Lane was awarded a Grammy, music's highest award, for her audio engineering work on a classical album. She is not the only musical soldier, sailor, airman or Marine.
  • Jane Corwin is Republican Choice for 26th Congressional Seat
    2/24/2011
    Republican chairs from New York's 26th CD have selected Assemblywoman Jane Corwin as their candidate in the special election to fill Chris Lee's vacant seat. The Democrats have not named a candidate and the Governor has not set a date for the election.
  • World Responds to New Zealand Earthquake
    2/23/2011
    Just over 24 hours after a magnitude 6.3 earthquake tore apart the city center of Christchurch, New Zealand, the world response is arriving. The elite of the world's rescue services are en route or on scene to aid in the search for survivors.
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  • 65 Known Dead in Christchurch, New Zealand, After Earthquake
    2/22/2011
    An aftershock from September's earthquake measuring 6.3 in magnitude struck Christchurch New Zealand at lunch time on Feb. 22. The city center is hard hit. At least 65 are known dead.
  • For Americans, Situation 'Normal' in Bahrain
    2/20/2011
    Both the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet and the American embassy in Bahrain report business as usual. The protests in the island nation are not aimed at Americans. Citizens are urged to avoid the protests.
  • U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet in Midst of Bahrain Protests
    2/17/2011
    The Navy's Fifth Fleet is headquartered in Bahrain, the small island nation in the middle of political turmoil. The Fleet is vital to U.S. security interests in the Persian Gulf and the Middle East.
  • Bahrain Protests Far More Complex than U.S. Media Show
    2/17/2011
    Tiny Bahrain is a long time ally of the United States. The latest census reveals that 54% of the residents of the kingdom are foreign citizens. Who are the protesters?
  • Prognosis: Inflation
    2/15/2011
    Inflation has been nearly non-existent for a generation. Better dig our your old "Whip Inflation Now" buttons, because it is coming back.
  • Advice for a High School Senior: Money
    2/15/2011
    Do you know what it costs to live on your own after high school? Here's a brief description of where your money will go.
  • What is a Small Business?
    2/15/2011
    The term "small business" is used in finance and politics a great deal. What is a small business?
  • Whooping Cough and the Flu Take Hold in New York
    2/14/2011
    Seasonal influenza, whooping cough and other respiratory illnesses are widespread in New York, according to public health authorities. The major illnesses are preventable through immunization and it is not too late to get those shots.
  • Haitian Cholera Epidemic Slows, Spreads to Other Nations
    2/13/2011
    The cholera epidemic in Haiti, that began in October 2010, shows some signs of slowing. It is spreading, as well, with cases appearing in many other nations in the Americas including the U.S.
  • Is Egypt's Revolution More Media Hype Than Revolution?
    2/11/2011
    World media has been focused for two weeks on the protesters in Tahrir Square. Do these people make up a real force for change? Egypt is a big country.
  • Will Rep. Lee's Resignation Affect New York Redistricting?
    2/11/2011
    The 2010 Census results show that New York State will lose two of its 29 Congressmen to reapportionment. With a state legislature divided between parties, redistricting will be contentious. Does the resignation of Chris Lee impact that fight?
  • Iraq Readies for U.S. Troop Departure
    2/11/2011
    The United States military is scheduled to leave Iraq by December 31, 2011. While the world's attention is focused on Afghanistan, the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines that are a part of Operation New Dawn continue to prepare for that departure.
  • AOL Buys Huffington Post, Hopes Readers Will Follow
    2/8/2011
    The sale of news and commentary site The Huffington Post to AOL means changes in the online news market. Billed originally as an alternative to the Drudge Report, the Post brings over 3,000 contributors to the AOL fold.
  • Jury Finds "Honor Killing" TV Mogul Guilty of Wife's Murder
    2/8/2011
    Muzzamil Hassan has been found guilty of the murder of his wife. She left him and filed for divorce. A week later, her beheaded corpse was found at the TV station they operated.
  • Food Prices Soar as Government Price Controls Fail
    2/4/2011
    Nearly every nation subsidizes food prices in one way or another. Most third world nations attempt to control the costs of food for their people. When open market food prices climb, government budgets often cannot keep up.
  • First Person: The Mistakes That Small Business Owners Make
    2/1/2011
    The people who run small businesses are among the hardest working and most creative business people. Small businesses still fail and usually from the same mistakes.
  • American Troops in Middle of Egyptian Unrest
    1/31/2011
    American troops have seen stationed in Egypt for many years for several important reasons. With the turmoil and protests these troops may be at risk and their missions threatened.
  • Rahm Emanuel is a Legal Resident of Chicago, Court Says
    1/28/2011
    Rahm Emanuel will be on the ballot when the contest for Mayor of Chicago, Illinois is decided by city voters. The Illinois State Supreme Court has ruled that he is a legal resident of the city and eligible to be a candidate for mayor.
  • Will Texting While Walking Become Illegal in New York State?
    1/26/2011
    Using a cell phone, iPod or sending a text message can be distracting. One New York state senator wants to make it illegal when crossing the street.
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  • U.S. Military Visits to Latin America Benefit Many
    1/24/2011
    Southern Command's annual Southern Partnership Station is underway. A variety of naval vessels and mission personnel will make port in many of the nations in Latin America, providing security training and humanitarian assistance.
  • Exercise Guru Jack LaLanne Dead at 96
    1/24/2011
    Jack LaLanne passed away in his California home Sunday at the age of 96. LaLanne is credited with being the first exercise and fitness stat on television.
  • George Clooney Recovers from Malaria
    1/21/2011
    Actor George Clooney is recovering from a bout with the mosquito-borne illness malaria. He contracted the disease in a recent visit to Sudan. This is his second time contracting the disease.
  • Harry's Law
    1/18/2011
    Take two patent lawyers, a foreclosed shoe store and a host of poor folks trying to get by and you have the scene for Harry's Law. This new legal drama from NBC stars Kathy Bates.
  • Trade Deficit with China and Currency Valuation on Visit Agenda
    1/18/2011
    Chinese President Hu Jintao makes a state visit to the United States this week. Economic issues such as the trade imbalance and the under valuation of the Chinese yuan will top the agenda.
  • U.S. May Voice Military Concerns to Chinese President Hu During State Visit
    1/18/2011
    Chinese President Hu Jintao makes a state visit to Washington this week. Along with economic issues, the two nations are expected to discuss the tensions on the Korean peninsula and other military concerns.
  • Air Force Reserve Conference Highlights Special Missions
    1/14/2011
    The Air Force Reserve has three units that handle special missions. The hurricane hunters are the best known but other units fight fires from the air and spray dispersant on oil slicks.
  • Giffords Recovery Termed "Miraculous"
    1/14/2011
    While still in critical condition, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords continues to show progress in her recovery from the shooting which nearly took her life. Her doctors are encouraged and optimistic.
  • Darfur Abductions Highlight Frontline Roles of United Nations Staffers
    1/13/2011
    Three Bulgarians operating a United Nations relief flight in the Darfur region of Sudan have been abducted. This is just the latest attack on U.N. personnel.
  • Air National Guard Adding New Lifesaving Role
    1/12/2011
    The most extraordinary aspects of medical treatment for American service members is the Air Force's ability to evacuate a critical patient from the battlefield to a hospital in the U.S. The Air National Guard is adding this to the roles it can fill.
  • North Korea Threatens America with Long-Range Missiles
    1/11/2011
    The North Korean government continues to develop missile with a longer and longer range. The threat to America grows as the North and its partners research and test these devices.
  • U.S. Military Aid After the Haitian Quake
    1/11/2011
    One of the most overlooked aspects of the aftermath of the Great Haitian Earthquake was the response from the U.S. military. Tens of thousands of personnel and hundreds of ships and aircraft responded quickly and effectively to the disaster.
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  • Internet Rumor About Facebook Just One of Many Unfounded Rumors
    1/10/2011
    Facebook is not shutting down March 15. An Internet rumor spreads faster than common sense. So, don't panic.
  • Key Players in New York State's Budget Woes
    1/10/2011
    New York State has a $315 million budget deficit for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2011. By then, the components of the state government have to fix that issue and put forward a budget for next year. Here are the major players in this struggle.
  • What is the Federal Debt Ceiling?
    1/10/2011
    One of the Congressional debates that you can rely on for every Congress is about the Federal debt ceiling. What is the debt ceiling and why is it important?
  • Flu Vaccine Demand and Supply Are a Delicate Balance
    1/7/2011
    The United Kingdom is currently experiencing some difficulties in supplying demand for seasonal influenza vaccine. Some areas have too much and some have too little. The U.S. has experienced shortages in the past, as well.
  • Bogus Research and Fraud Found in Study of Vaccines and Autism
    1/7/2011
    Andrew Wakefield's 1998 study linking the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine to autism and other medical ailments was retracted in 2008 by its publisher. A new investigation confirms that the study was unscientific and medically unsound.
  • Who Are the Copts of Egypt?
    1/5/2011
    The Coptic Church of Egypt is in the news after a bombing on New Year's Day killed 23 believers leaving a church service. The religion, founded by the Gospel writer St. Mark, is among the oldest Christian faiths in the world.
  • First Person: Questions and Answers About Health Savings Accounts
    1/4/2011
    Health Savings Accounts represent one possible choice for consumers purchasing health insurance coverage. Here are some common questions with answers and additional resources.
  • A Shaky Economy and an Uncertain Future
    1/4/2011
    2011 brings the potential for an improved economy for the U.S., but the outlook is not clear. For people like us that have been dropped out of the middle class, the shaky economy gives both worry and hope.
  • World's Longest Cave Passage Found in Vietnam
    1/4/2011
    After two expeditions to the jungles of Vietnam, cave researchers have announced the discovery of the world's longest single cave passage. The Son Doong cave is in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
  • Salmaan Taseer Assassinated Over Opposition to Pakistan's Blasphemy Law
    1/4/2011
    Salmaan Taseer, governor of Punjab Province, Pakistan, was shot dead by a bodyguard after leaving a luncheon in Islamabad on Tuesday. A noted entrepreneur, Taseer was vocal in his opposition to the nation's anti-blasphemy law.
  • New York Likely To Be Shaken Politically in 2011
    1/3/2011
    New York government has been dysfunctional for decades as Democrats and Republicans traded favors for pork while ignoring looming fiscal crises. Is 2011 the year that change comes to Albany?
  • Cuban Medical Team Continues Aid to Haiti
    12/24/2010
    The Cubans have a large medical team working in Haiti. From a small unit in country before the earthquake, the numbers of personnel have continued to grow. They are providing both earthquake relief and cholera treatment in the stricken nation.
  • 5 Hot Actresses Who Play Girl Geeks on Television
    12/16/2010
    The new hotness on television is the girl geek, keyboard in hand. It's true. There's nothing sexier than a hot woman with mad computer skills.
  • Haiti's Cholera Death Toll Climbs
    12/14/2010
    Over 2,300 cholera-related deaths are now being reported from the island nation of Haiti. Amid post election violence, the fight to stop this illness continues.
  • Five Questions I'd Ask N.Y. Gov.-Elect Andrew Cuomo
    12/13/2010
    New York's governor-elect, Andrew Cuomo, takes office January 1. Having run as an Albany outsider, I have some questions for him about how he intends to govern.
  • Infants at Heart of New York Whooping Cough Outbreak
    12/13/2010
    In an interview with Faith Lustik, a health planner for the Jefferson County, N.Y., Public Health Service, an update was obtained on the whooping cough outbreak in the county.
  • Detroit Suburbs at Heart of Michigan's Whooping Cough Outbreak
    12/13/2010
    The heart of the pertussis outbreak in Michigan is in those counties surrounding the City of Detroit. Its suburbs and the environs of the University of Michigan's campus in Ann Arbor have reported 57 percent of all the whooping cough cases in Michigan in 2010.
  • NY Whooping Cough Outbreak Moves State into Top 5 Outbreaks Nationally
    12/10/2010
    The November outbreak of pertussis/whooping cough in upstate Jefferson County has nearly doubled New York's case count for 2010. The state has moved from eighth nationally to fifth in the total number of cases.
  • Controlled Burn to Destroy Escondido Bomb House
    12/9/2010
    Thursday, December 9, is the day set for the controlled burn of 1954 Via Scott in northwest Escondido. The building has been deemed by explosives experts as too dangerous to enter. An elaborate plan is in place to protect the community during the burn.
  • Female Engagment Teams Winning Hearts and Minds in Afghanistan
    12/8/2010
    The many cultures of Afghanistan have one thing in common: Women are sheltered from the outside world. Bringing peace to that country means reaching out to the hidden 50 percent and military women are doing just that.
    Also published on:
  • Elizabeth Edwards Honors Son Wade in Death
    12/7/2010
    Elizabeth Edwards passed away December 7, 2010, from cancer. Her last wishes include asking that any donations in her memory go to the Wade Edwards Foundation. Her son, Wade, was killed in an auto accident at age 16, in 1996.
  • Take Advantage of 2010 Tax Law Today
    12/7/2010
    With just a few days left in the 111th Congress, vital tax law legislation seems out of reach. Last minute planning for 2010 taxes needs to take into account the uncertain tax future.
  • Philly Burbs Center of Pennsylvania Whooping Cough Outbreak
    12/7/2010
    Pennsylvania currently ranks fifth in the nation based on reported cases of whooping cough for 2010. Southeastern Pennsylvania and metro Philadelphia are at the heart of the outbreak.
  • Texas Whooping Cough Outbreak Centered in Austin
    12/5/2010
    Texas had the highest whooping cough case count in the nation in 2009. In 2010, it is second only to California. Data from the CDC and the State of Texas reveals the outbreak to be centered in and around Austin, the state capital.
  • The Air Force's Newest Supercomputer
    12/5/2010
    The goal: build a supercomputer using off the shelf hardware and open source software. The result: the Condor Cluster at the Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate at Rome N.Y.
    Also published on:
  • CDC Team Investigating Ohio Whooping Cough Outbreak
    12/2/2010
    Ohio ranks third in the nation in the number of cases of whooping cough it has reported in 2010. The cases center around Columbus and the surrounding counties in a curious cluster. The CDC has sent a team to help investigate.
    Also published on:
  • Worst Over in California Whooping Cough Epidemic?
    12/1/2010
    California's whooping cough epidemic may be approaching an end.The onset of new cases seems to be dropping slowly from a peak in June. The total number of cases of pertussis, however, continues to climb.
  • First Person From a CPA: 5 Tips for Small Business Success
    11/29/2010
    Running a small business is easy. Succeeding with a small business is hard. Here are five often overlooked tips from an accounting professional that can help a small business succeed.
  • Haitian Elections Filled with Turmoil
    11/29/2010
    Devastated by earthquake and illness, Haiti went to the polls today to try to elect a government. Almost immediately, protests broke out charging fraud in the vote.
  • New York State Sees Whooping Cough Outbreak Spread
    11/27/2010
    New York is one of just a few states nationally with over 500 cases of whooping cough, or pertussis as it is medically known. Rural Jefferson County appears to be the source of most of the newly reported cases.
  • Korean Tensions Continue
    11/26/2010
    The recent actions of the North Koreans, in shelling a South Korean island, ensured increased tensions in the region. The 1953 armistice stopped most of the fighting but American and South Korean troops continue to lose their lives in incidents.
  • Remembering the Dead in Katyn Forest
    11/26/2010
    In 1940, Russian secret police began the executions of thousands of Polish leaders and military officers. Some 4,000 were buried in Katyn Forest and blamed on the Nazis. The West accepted this tale as one price for Stalin's aid.
  • Federal Budget Solutions Begin With a Budget
    11/24/2010
    The United States is now into its second year without a Federal budget. Congress has failed to pass a budget. A budget is a plan and Congress is failing to plan.
  • Why Does Tom Turkey Gobble, Gobble?
    11/23/2010
    The sound made by a turkey has always fascinated the young and the young at heart. There are some good reasons that turkeys gobble.
  • The Coach That Saw a Nerd and Cared
    11/23/2010
    Coaching is not just about athletics. Sometimes it is about the person. One coach saw a nerd, and found a way for that young man to be a part of something.
  • Volcano Sets Bulusan, Sorsogon, in Philippines on Edge
    11/23/2010
    The Bulusan volcano has been producing volcanic earthquakes for several weeks and over the weekend produced several explosive ash eruptions. The surrounding region is on alert for further eruptions and damage from falling ash.
  • My Wild Life as a Rule Breaker
    11/23/2010
    Life is full of rules, some good, some bad. Life would be no fun if we did not break a rule once in a while. Here are five rules I like to break.
  • George Eastman House and the International Museum of Photography and Film
    11/22/2010
    George Eastman founded a company called Eastman Kodak. After his death, his home became the site of the International Museum of Photography and Film. This museum holds a significant collection of the earliest motion pictures and artifacts of the era.
  • Whooping Cough Outbreak Worse in Anti-Vaccine States
    11/22/2010
    Only 20 states allow parents to refuse to immunize their children because of a personal belief. The current whooping cough outbreak is centered in those states.
  • Visiting Rockefeller Center at Christmas
    11/18/2010
    The Christmas decorations of Rockefeller Center are world renowned. My first visit to this spectacular left me in awe. No one should miss this icon of American Christmas tradition.
  • Hero Receives Medal of Honor
    11/17/2010
    Sal Giunta charged through a hail of enemy fire to rescue a fellow soldier and friend who was being carried off. President Obama has presented him with the Medal of Honor, America's highest award for valor in battle.
  • Pakistan Still Suffering from Flooding
    11/16/2010
    Just over 100 days have passed since Pakistan began to suffer from flooding caused by unexpectedly heavy monsoon rains. Some parts of the country may remain flooded for six months. The people are in need and the relief efforts lack funding.
  • Haitian Hospitals Overflowing with Cholera Patients
    11/14/2010
    As the cholera epidemic in Haiti enters its fourth week, both the death toll and the numbers hospitalized continue to grow. Cases have been reported nationwide and there is no sign of the outbreak slowing.
    Also published on:
  • California's Whooping Cough Epidemic Centered in Rich, White Counties
    11/12/2010
    The whooping cough epidemic in California is centered in a most unusual demographic. Well-to-do counties with low Latino populations are at the heart of this illness outbreak.
  • Cholera Stalks Haiti as Hurricane Fears Blow Away
    11/11/2010
    In the aftermath of Hurricane Tomas, the cholera epidemic is spreading throughout Haiti. The damage done by the hurricane was minimal but the flood waters have spread the deadly illness far and wide.
  • Tighten your belt, federal government, to solve fiscal crisis
    11/11/2010
    The average Federal government employee makes nearly double the wage of the average American. 90% of all Americans make less than the average Federal employee. They work for us. It is time to cut costs.
  • Constructing the perfect American politician
    11/11/2010
    No politician is perfect. But, with a little elbow grease and some glue, one can be built.
  • Cost-cutting, federal budget should be on agenda for Obama, Boehner
    11/9/2010
    I would like to ask the President of the United States and the future Republican Speaker of the House some questions. I have not heard them asked and they are import questions.
  • If I were Nancy Pelosi, I'd make lame-duck session productive as possible
    11/8/2010
    As Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi only has two months left to serve. In January 2011, the new Republican majority takes over. What can Pelosi do in the lame duck session of 2010 and in the following two years in the minority?
  • Aid from U.S. Assists Haiti After Hurricane Tomas
    11/6/2010
    As the rain and winds from Hurricane Tomas fade, Haitians look to the world for assistance. Just as after the January 12 earthquake, the United States is one of the leaders in this disaster recovery mission.
  • Tomas Nears Hurricane Strength as it Hits Haiti
    11/5/2010
    The latest bulletin from the National Hurricane Center has put the southern coast of Haiti under a hurricane warning. Tropical Storm Tomas is expected to reach hurricane strength as it passes over the area tonight.
  • Political Change Escapes New York State
    11/4/2010
    The ranks of the New York State Assembly and State Senate will be little changed when they open for business in 2011. Both major political parties chose the status quo over change in the 2010 election.
  • Latinos Not to Blame for Whooping Cough Epidemic
    11/1/2010
    Media outlets and Internet commentators have suggested that Latinos in California are somehow responsible for the current whooping cough epidemic. The data seems to suggest that is simply not true.
  • New Voting Machines May Complicate New York Election
    11/1/2010
    This will be the first election that most New York voters will experience a new method of voting. Old, lever operated voting booths are gone. The new method scans ballots that the voter has filled in by hand.
    Also published on:
  • Is the mortgage interest deduction on the way out?
    10/25/2010
    The National Commission charged with finding ways to reduce the Federal budget deficit is looking at changing the income tax deduction of mortgage interest on your home. Such a change will raise taxes for many with low family incomes.
  • Are Incumbent State Legislators in Trouble?
    10/25/2010
    The elected government of New York State has been in a state of flux for about two years. Beset by scandals and infighting, there has been a definite lack of business as usual. Will we see that in the 2010 elections?
    Also published on:
  • Cholera Pandemic Strikes Haiti
    10/24/2010
    Cholera, not seen in Haiti in decades, has appeared as that island nation struggles to overcome the damage from the January earthquake that virtually destroyed one third of the country.
    Also published on:
  • Vote Absentee, Courtesy of the Republican Party
    10/15/2010
    A Republican Party mailing of absentee ballot applications seems to encourage voters to lie about their reason for voting absentee.
  • Louise Slaughter (D NY-28) Congresswoman for Life
    10/11/2010
    New York State's 28th Congressional District is represented by 12 term Democrat Louise Slaughter. Despite the Tea Party movement, the vast majority of the Congress, including Slaughter, will be reelected. But should they?
    Also published on:
  • Haiti at Nine Months
    10/9/2010
    Despite the efforts of the U.S. military following Haiti's devastating earthquake, things are not getting better. With the recovery now in the hands of the Haitian government and its international partners, the quake's victims remain in misery.
  • Gay Marriage or Otherwise, the Government Has No Business in Relationships
    10/7/2010
    The maze of marriage laws across the United States are mute testimony of the poor manner in which government regulates marriage and family law. Legal gay marriage changes nothing but the degree of complexity.
    Also published on:
  • Opinion: Democrats responsible for partisan tone in Washington
    10/5/2010
    At a time in history when Democratic Party principles and its platform ought to be advancing without pause, the rancor issuing from the party in power has brought the legislative process to a standstill.
  • Terror Threat to Europe Nothing New
    10/3/2010
    The threat of terror in Europe has existed for many years. While much media speculation exists about the potential of a Mumbai like attack, the evidence is lacking.
  • U.S. Assistance Continues as Pakistan Flooding Endures
    9/23/2010
    A major lake in Pakistan has overflowed its banks, flooding new areas of the stricken nation. Additional U.S. military assistance has arrived, with new equipment and aircraft.
  • A snapshot of the Tea Party movement in Rochester, N.Y.
    9/20/2010
    Since March 2009, the Tea Party movement has been growing in Rochester, N.Y. An academic and union stronghold, the movement has reached out to concerned citizens of all parties who want to see a change in how their government acts.
  • Whooping cough epidemic not only illness outbreak in United States
    9/17/2010
    The whooping cough epidemic in California is not the only recent outbreak of illness. Other illnesses such as mumps and dengue fever have also appeared recently and sickened many.
  • New York's Republican Primary Produces Upset
    9/15/2010
    The Republican primary in New York State featured two major races, candidate for governor and candidate for the remaining two years of the Clinton Senate term. Using brand new voting machines, voters made some news.
  • Military Paperwork Going Digital
    9/13/2010
    The military has been moving to all digital record keeping since 1994. The last of some 250,000 personnel files full of paper are in the process of being converted at the Air Reserve Center in Denver.
  • America's Military Heroes
    9/9/2010
    The young men and women who serve in America's Armed Forces are heroic for serving and volunteering as they have. There is a higher calling for some, service above and beyond the call of duty. Here are some of their stories.
  • Pakistan Monsoon Flooding Continues with Little Relief in Sight
    9/6/2010
    The U.S. military continues its relief mission in the flood stricken nation of Pakistan. Additional helicopters are arriving to bolster those already there, and C-130 aircraft are transporting supplies throughout the country.
  • Beautiful Women from Summer Television
    9/6/2010
    The television schedule is morphing into a year round adventure. More and more cable channels are introducing their own series at non traditional times. Summer may be "beautiful women television".
  • Does Your Cat Have You Well Trained?
    9/3/2010
    Cats first joined mankind tens of thousands of years ago. Since then, they have devoted countless hours to training people in the proper ways of caring for cats.
  • U.S. Aid Continues to Flow to Pakistan Flood Victims
    8/30/2010
    The United States has committed over $200 million in assistance to the victims of the monsoon flooding in Pakistan. An important part of that assistance is the effort by the U.S. military and its flying heroes.
  • Millions Helped by U.S. Military Relief Efforts in Pakistan
    8/23/2010
    The United States military is leading the way for foreign assistance to the victims of the monsoon flooding in Pakistan.
  • United States Aids Pakistani Flood Victims
    8/18/2010
    The United States government, and its military, are providing rescue, relief and funding to the victims of the monsoon floods in pakistan.
  • U.S. Marines Respond to Pakistan Floods
    8/13/2010
    Helicopters from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit have begun to land at the Pakistani airbase of Ghazi. They join U.A. Army helicopters already flying relief missions to flooding victims,
  • Progress with the Afghan Air Force
    8/12/2010
    Nearly destroyed by the years of civil war and the rule of the Taliban, the Air Force of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan has been reconstituted. It is operating in the service of the Afghan people.
  • Afghan National Security Forces
    8/11/2010
    As NATO allies consider withdrawing from Afghanistan, and the United States itself is setting limits to its military assistance, the makeup and abilities of the Afghan National Security Forces become vitally important.
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