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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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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New Challenges in Marine Corps's Future in the PacificThe United States Marine Corps, as part of the "pivot to the Pacific", will be stocking up on new equipment and moving to some new homes in the next several years. The Corps remains positioned to aid our allies in war and assist the stricken in peace. -
Marine Corps Pivot to the PacificThe announced policy of the United States is to pivot its military to recognize the importance of the Pacific rim nations to the 21st century. The U.S. Marine Corps continues its engagement in the region which dates to 1813. -
Colorado Wildfire Claims Two LivesThe Black Forest wildfire has claimed two lives. The El Paso county coroner is on scene with criminal investigators at a burned house in a very heavily burned area. The deaths appear to have happened within hours of the fire's start. -
Wildfire Scorches Colorado Springs for Second YearColorado Springs is fighting a large wildfire to its north, known as the Black Forest Fire. The fire began about 1 pm MDT on Tuesday. Over 7,300 people have been evacuated. It is zero percent contained. -
Drownings During Hurricane Sandy Preventable?The Centers for Disease Control release a study today that provides information about most of the deaths due to superstorm Hurricane Sandy last Fall. Significantly, 90 percent of those who drowned in their home in NYC were in the evacuation zone. -
Sequestration to Affect Schooling for Military ChildrenIn a telephone interview today, Marilee Fitzgerald, Director of the Department of Defense Education Activity, discussed the notice of potential furloughs given teachers in the DoD system today. 84,000 students in 194 schools will be affected. -
North Dakota Dam Forces EvacuationsThe North Dakota community of Cavalier, home to 1,300 people, was evacuated yesterday as rising water threatened the Renwick Dam on the Tongue River. Rising water also endangers other northeastern ND communities such as Grafton. -
Military Responds to Oklahoma TornadoThe Oklahoma National Guard, joined by Air Force personnel, are on location in Moore, OK, following an EF4 tornado that struck the community yesterday. At least 250 Army and Air National Guard soldiers and airmen have been dispatched. -
So.California Wildfire at 28,000 AcresThe Springs fire, currently burning in Ventura County, Cal., has consumed 28,000 acres as of 6 am local time. Yesterday, firefighters and military personnel prevented the fire from damaging the billion dollar communications facilities on Laguna Peak. -
Six Months After Hurricane Sandy, Much Still to DoIt has been six months since superstorm "Hurricane" Sandy came ashore and devastated Long Island and the City of New York. Despite the hundreds of millions of dollars that has been spent, recovery results are mixed. -
Spring Flooding Calls for Military AssistanceAs the 2013 flood season begins in the upper Midwest, National Guard and Coast Guard units are already responding. In Illinois, Missouri and North Dakota, the military is assisting local governments where flooding is occurring or about to occur. -
Making Sense of Military Suicide Statistics is DifficultSuicide prevention is one of the military's top priorities, according to the Pentagon. The data is less than convincing, and mostly confusing. How large is the problem? -
North Korea Can Mount Nuke on Missile, Representative RevealsRep. Doug Lamborn created a stir in Washington yesterday when he read two lines of a Defense Intelligence Agency report out loud in a Congressional hearing. The unclassified excerpt stated that North Korea could mount a nuclear weapon on a missile. -
Anthony Weiner to Run for New York City Mayor?As New York state and city officials are rounded up by the FBI for all types of crimes, a non-criminal is considering a run for mayor. Anthony Weiner, forced from Congress in a juicy sexting scandal, may seek redemption by running. -
President to Award Medal of Honor to Catholic PriestPresident Obama will present a posthumous Medal of Honor to the relatives of Captain Emil Kapaun today at the White House. Kapaun, a Roman Catholic priest, will be honored for his valor during the Korean War as a prisoner of war. -
Navy to Deploy Laser Weapon to Persian GulfThe U.S. Navy announced Monday that it plans to deploy a solid-state laser for use as a weapon. The intent is to place the new system on the U.S.S. Ponce, deployed in the Persian Gulf, sometime after Oct. 1.
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Is Slave Labor Filling Fargo Sandbags?Outspoken commentator Ed Shultz took a swipe at the people of Fargo, ND, yesterday. Noting reports that middle school students had volunteered to fill sandbags in advance of flooding, he termed their efforts "slave labor" on behalf of the wealthy.
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Cookie Monster to Be Banned from New York City StreetsAfter a recent allegation that a street performer dressed as the Cookie Monster pushed a toddler, NYC Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. wants to ban performers in costume. He has introduced two local laws to ban or regulate appearing in costume in public.
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Tense Week Begins in Korea as North May Test Missile and NukeAs tensions continue to increase on the Korean peninsula, both U.S. and South Korean intelligence is suggesting that the North will test a medium range missile this week. Some signs are also pointing to a fourth test of an atomic bomb by the North soon.
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U.S. Deploys Sea-Based X-Band Radar into PacificThe sea-based X-Band radar that has been stationed in Hawaii has put to sea. While the Pentagon says the move of the radar is "a semi-annual systems check and is underway for trials", speculation is that it will be headed towards Korea.
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Uniting the Two Koreas is a Bad IdeaBoth North and South Korea maintain that their eventual goal is the unification of the two countries. The world appears to support that goal in principle. There are many reasons that unification may be a bad idea.
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North Korea to Restart Reactor as U.S. Adds New ForcesThe U.S.S. McCain, a guided missile destroyer homeported in Japan, has been moved to the coast of South Korea to provide a ballistic missile shield for the region. This follows a week of threats from North Korea and their rocket forces going to alert stat
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FBI Busts N.Y. Politicos for Bribery and CorruptionFBI agents are rounding up six prominent New York politicians today as news breaks of bribery and election rigging. US Attorney calls the scheme "a corridor of corruption" from Queens to Albany.
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Navy Ship Removed from Philippine ReefThe U.S.Navy has announced that salvage operations on the U.S.S. Guardian were completed on March 30. The mine countermeasures vessel ran aground on Jan. 17, on Tubbataha Reef, a World Heritage site. The U.S. faces fines for damage caused to the reef.
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U.S. Sends Stealth Bombers Over KoreaTwo stealth bombers were dispatched on a training mission over South Korea today. The B-2 bombers flew round trip from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., and participated in an on-going military exercise, Foal Eagle.
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Tensions Continue on Korean PeninsulaTensions continue to grow on the Korean peninsula as a cyber attack on Internet-connected servers in the South cripples a large number of businesses. Banks and news media outlets were among those struck.
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Tensions Grow in Korea as Annual Military Exercise Kicks OffThe annual Key Resolve military exercise between the U.S. and the Republic of Korea began today as tensions rose on the divided peninsula. North Korean media state that the government of Kim Jong-un has canceled the armistice that ended the Korean War.
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February Unemployment Data for Veterans Little ChangedThe BLS data on employment and unemployment among veterans released today for February 2013 showed little change from the Fen. 2012 data. 772,000 veterans were unemployed last month. The youngest veterans had the highest unemployment rate.
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Weather Slows Navy Salvage Operation in PhilippinesThe USS Guardian remains aground on a coral reef in the Sulu Sea, in a Philippine national park and World Heritage Site. The ship is being cut into pieces and lifted free of the reef. Heavy weather is now slowing salvage operations.
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Homeless in New York City Reach Record HighThe Coalition for the Homeless released its annual report yesterday on the homeless in New York City and was sharply critical of the Bloomberg administration. Over 50,000 people are staying nightly in municipal shelters, a modern record.
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Next Pope Should Continue the Work of Benedict XVIThe next Pope has some big shoes to fill. The Shoes of the Fisherman ask an ordinary man to step forward and lead a billion Catholics. The last Pope has given us an example to follow.
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Flu Epidemic Still Hitting New YorkInfluenza illnesses are slowing but not stopping in New York. The Empire State continues to have widespread flu activity and illness levels remain above average. Nine children have died from influenza since Oct. 1.
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PTSD Risk Linked to GeneticsCalling it a "combat gene", U.S. researchers has found a connection between variants of a serotonin transporter gene and PTSD. Anxiety in peaceful situations results in normal combat responses.
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New Yorkers Have Seen Blizzards BeforeAs the nor'easter that some care naming Nemo moves up the Atlantic coast and across New York and into New England, past storms are worth recalling. New York always copes with the snow and wind.
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Media Misleads on Military Veterans Suicide StudyA 59 page study was released at the end of January that examined the number of suicides among military veterans in select states. Media reports fail to quote the findings accurately.
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New York Flu Epidemic ContinuesNew York's latest flu report shows that a decline in cases may have stalled. More New Yorker's went to the doctor last week. Two more children died from the flu.
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U.S. Military Little Affected by Flu EpidemicWith extremely high flu vaccination rates, the United State military seems to have avoided the disruptions it experienced during the pandemic flu outbreak of 2009-2010. Little impact has been seen on operations.
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Women Warriors Talk About the Lifting of the Ban on Direct Combat RolesWith the lifting of the ban on women being assigned to direct combat roles about to be lifted in the U.S. military, some current and former female soldiers give their opinions.
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Panetta to Announce End of Direct Combat Exclusion for WomenThe Department of Defense announced on Wednesday that Defense Secretary Leon Panetta and Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, have directed the lifting of the long standing ban on women serving in direct combat roles.
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U.S. Navy Minesweeper Still Grounded on World Heritage Site ReefThe USS Guardian remains aground and unmanned on Tubbataha Reef in the Sulu Sea as Philippine authorities prepare legal action. The US Navy has assigned Rear Adm. Thomas Carney as on-scene commander of the recovery operation.
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No End in Sight for New York Flu EpidemicWidespread flu activity in New York, coupled with continued high hospital admissions for the illness, suggest that the end of the influenza epidemic has not yet arrived. One more pediatric death from the flu was reported.
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New York Struggles with Severe Flu OutbreakNew York City Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley told a press conference on Jan. 10 that influenza was epidemic in all five boroughs of the city. This follows a similar announcement in Boston the day before.
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Whooping Cough Cases Set Record in New York in 2012New York set a modern record in 2012 by reporting 3,065 cases of pertussis, or whooping cough, to the Centers for Disease Control. The outbreak began in 2011 and new cases continue to be reported in 2013. The reason for the high number of illnesses remain
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Private Donations for Hurricane Sandy Relief Fall ShortIt may be the poor economy. It may be the time of year. But the amount of money donated for Hurricane Sandy relief by individuals and companies is only 23 percent of what was donated for Hurricane Katrina relief by day 44.
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The Case for Not Rebuilding After Hurricane SandyNew York and New Jersey face the problem of rebuilding the infrastructure and the buildings that were damaged by Hurricane Sandy. Should everything be restored to the way it was? Or, should we recognize that we cannot fool Mother Nature?
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FEMA is Not at FaultVictims of the Hurricane Sandy superstorm have been complaining for weeks about the activities of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. FEMA is doing its job and those complaints are misdirected.
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Coast Guard Sailor Killed During Sea ChaseOne Coast Guard sailor was killed and another injured Sunday morning when their boat was rammed by another boat they had been attempting to stop. The pursuit was taking place in the Channel Islands off the Southern California coast.
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Bellevue Hospital Partially Reopens After Hurricane SandyNew York City's famous Bellevue Hospital has partially reopened, for non-emergency patient care, after being evacuated during Hurricane Sandy. Other New York hospitals also remain affected by the storm.
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Public Health Service Aids Hurricane Sandy ReliefThe U.S. Public Heath Service is part of the federal response to the destruction caused by Hurricane Sandy. A Rapid Deployment Force is operating a medical special needs shelter at a hospital in Brooklyn.
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Hurricane Sandy Makes Cory Booker the Next "America's Mayor"Shortly after September 11, 2001, Oprah Winfrey dubbed New York mayor Rudy Giuliani "America's mayor" for his leadership after the terrorist attacks that day. His ownership of that title is being challenged by the mayor of Newark, NJ, Cory Booker.
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How Far Have Race Relations Come?In 1896, race relations were very different in the United States. Looking a a newspaper from that era provides a few examples of the progress society has made.
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Military Enters Colorado Wildfire FightSpecialized aircraft from the Air National Guard and the Air Force Reserve have been called to duty in the fight against two dangerous Colorado wildfires. Four C-130 aircraft equipped with MAFFS are being added as both fires continue to expand.
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Why Vaccinate for Whooping Cough?Many parents are choosing to defer or delay recommended childhood vaccines. Their decision is often based on the impression that the vaccine is worse than the illness. Whooping cough data shows that it is not true.
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Whooping Cough is Not CyclicalPublic health authorities throughout the U.S. frequently explain outbreaks of whooping cough as part of the disease's cycle. The data on where pertussis appears contradicts that belief. Accepting the illness as routine is not acceptable.
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Crime in New York in 2011The FBI has released its latest annual report on crime in the United States. New York City ranks as the eighth most violent city in America but three other New York State cities are more violent.
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Whooping Cough Cases Top 12,000 in United StatesWhooping cough, pertussis, case counts continue to mount in much of the United States. Washington, Wisconsin and New York have reported 40 percent of the national total. Twenty-four states have seen 100 cases or more this year.
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Cuomo Seeks to Ease Marijuana Possession Laws in New YorkCurrent New York law makes possessing marijuana in public a misdemeanor. New York's governor wants to make it conform with the law for non-public possession, making it a violation. Smoking marijuana in public would remain a misdemeanor.
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Minnesota Whooping Cough Cases JumpMinnesota continues to see a growing number of whooping cough cases in 2012. The current total is 815, an increase of 145 pertussis cases since mid May. The outbreak is centered on the capital region, St. Paul, Minneapolis and Hennepin County.
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Whooping Cough Cases Top 10,000 NationallyThe CDC released the latest numbers on whooping cough cases in the United States today. With over 932 new cases reported last week nationally, the outbreak appears most severe in Washington and Wisconsin.
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Wisconsin and Washington Lead Nation in Whooping Cough CasesThe CDC's latest numbers show that the whooping cough outbreak continues to spread across the nation. Only Minnesota has had no cases in 2012. Wisconsin and Washington lead in case counts again this week.
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Vaccine Exemptions Fueling Whooping Cough OutbreaksEvery state allows some sort of exemption from mandated childhood immunizations. Twenty states allow an exemption based upon the parents' personal or philosophical objection to immunization. Those exemptions are fueling the pertussis outbreaks.
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Whooping Cough Cases in New York GrowWhooping cough cases continue to appear in New York. The outbreak places the state third nationally in the number of pertussis cases reported in 2012. 45 new cases were reported last week.
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Health Risk at London OlympicsEngland and Wales continue to see high case counts for vaccine preventable illnesses as the London Olympics approaches. With 84 days remaining until the opening ceremony, measles mumps and pertussis (whooping cough) case counts continue to increase.
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Whooping Cough Cases Surge NationallyThe CDC reports that cases of pertussis, or whooping cough, surged in the third week of April. 334 new cases were reported. Only two states have zero cases in 2012.
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Beef Bans After Mad Cow Scare are Political, Not Safety IssueThe discovery of a dairy cow suffering from bovine spongiform encephalopathy, mad cow disease, prompted several nations to ban beef imports from the United States. Dairy cattle are not used for beef. The bans are more political than safety oriented.
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Pacific Partnership 2012 Ready to Set SailThe hospital ship USNS Mercy will begin the seventh year of Pacific Partnership on May 1 when it sails from San Diego. Host nations this year for the annual humanitarian mission are Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines.
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Fire Weather Warning for New YorkNew York State had a very dry winter and spring. The lack of snow and spring rain combined with extreme drought conditions on Long Island is creating the potential for serious wildfires.
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Drought Conditions Declared for Long IslandThe National Weather Service has declared parts of New York State to be in severe or moderate drought conditions. The worst of the drought is affecting Long Island, including Suffolk and Nassau counties.
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Whooping Cough Cases Climb NationallyWhooping cough case counts continue to climb nationally and at least one state has declared an epidemic outbreak. Seven of the top nine states allow parents to refuse to immunize their children based on a personal belief.Also published on:
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Airman Barry F. Crawford Jr. to Receive Air Force CrossCaptain Barry F. Crawford Jr. will be presented with the Air Force Cross at a ceremony at the Pentagon today. Crawford earned his award by his valor in combat in a May 2010 battle in Afghanistan.
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Grandpa was a Serial BigamistMy father had always known that his father had a first wife. He never learned the secret that his mother took to her grave. His father's first wife was alive and not divorced when he married my father's mother.
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Two Mega Millions Tickets Turned InTwo winning tickets for the record $656 million Mega Millions jackpot of March 30 have now been turned in. A pooled win in Maryland has made three people millionaires. An individual winner in Kansas is also a new millionaire.
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New York Tops in Illness OutbreaksTwo outbreaks of Salmonella and an outbreak of whooping cough have New Yorkers under the weather and near the top in case numbers. Four different strains of Salmonella have sickened dozens and nearly 600 have caught pertussis, or whooping cough.
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Tsunami Ghost Ship Sunk by Naval GunfireLate yesterday, the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Anacapa sank the Ryou-Un Maru. The Japanese fishing vessel earned its notoriety by drifting unmanned across the Pacific following the March 2010 tsunami. Maritime officials deemed it a hazard to navigation.
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Whooping Cough Epidemic in Washington StateThe State of Washington has declared that pertussis, or whooping cough, is now epidemic in the state. The last state epidemic of this illness was in California in 2010. 640 cases of whooping cough have been diagnosed.
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Mega Millions Mystery -- Who Won?Three winning tickets were sold for last Friday's record setting Mega Millions lottery drawing. Only one person has come forward, claiming to have a winning ticket. Doubts surround that person's story, however.
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Public Health Officials to Focus on Autism During AprilAutism spectrum disorders are the focus of a United Nations resolution and a sustained public education campaign this month. With increased numbers of patients being diagnosed, the causes and treatments are in the spotlight.
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America in 1940 -- The View from the CensusThe Federal government took a nation census for the sixteenth time in 1940. Those records have been made public today. Historians and genealogists - take note!
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Kentucky Legislature Passes Amish Buggy BillKentucky's legislature has agreed to allow buggies operated by Amish believers to be marked in a different manner than other highway vehicles. The Amish objected to the standard reflective triangle.
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Mega Millions Jackpot Now Half a Billion DollarsSix numbers could make someone half a billion dollars on Friday. The Mega Millions lottery jackpot has reached a record level with no winner on Tuesday.
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Operators Struggle at Fukushima Nuclear Disaster SiteOne year after the earthquake and tsunami that created the nuclear disaster at Japan's Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station, operators are struggling with the result. A water leak and high radiation levels in one reactor were discovered yesterday.Also published on:
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Mega Millions Lottery Jackpot Estimated at $363 MillionThe multi-state Mega Millions lottery jackpot is now an estimated $363 million. Tonight's drawing will be for the third highest payout in game history.
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Huge Rats Menace Florida KeysGrassy Key, one of the Florida Keys, has become the home of an unwanted visitor to the U.S. The Gambian pouch rat has established a breeding population despite the best efforts to trap or poison the monster rats.
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Pope Visits Communist CubaPope Benedict XVI has departed Mexico and has arrived in Cuba on the final leg of his apostolic visit to these two Latin American nations. In Mexico, he prayed for those suffering from violence.
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Palace Renovations Offer Window on British RoyalsTwelve million pounds of renovations have refurbished the newly re-opened Kensington Palace in London. The Palace still houses a number of the British royal family and its historic residents include Queen Victoria and Lady Diana.
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King of Tonga Dies SuddenlyKing George Tupou V of Tonga passed away March 18 during a visit to Hong Kong. His reign was marked by his surrender of absolute power to an elected government.
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American Troops Besieged in Egypt ProtestThe main camp of the Multinational Force & Observers (MFO), which oversees the Sinai provisions of the Israeli/Egyptian peace treaty, has been besieged by armed Bedouin. About 80 Americans are believed to be in the camp.
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6-Year-Old Heads to National Spelling BeeA home schooled girl, Lori Anne Madison, won a regional competition in Prince William County, Virginia, to advance to the national level of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. At age 6, she is believed to be the youngest national competitor ever.
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Tsunami Debris Still Coming, Researcher WarnsThe International Pacific Research Center's Nikolai Maximenko warned on Friday that the debris from the 2011 Japanese tsunami is still moving towards the U.S. He predicts that Hawaii will see the greatest impact.
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February Unemployment Rate UnchangedThe Bureau of Labor Statistics released the February 2012 unemployment numbers today. Despite non-farm job gains of 227,000, the unemployment rate remained unchanged at 8.3 percent.Also published on:
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Royal Danish Navy Frees Pirate CaptivesThe Royal Danish Navy ship Absalon has freed sixteen Iranian and Pakistani sailors being held captive aboard a pirated cargo ship off the coast of Somalia. Two captives were killed in the naval action.
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Super Tuesday to Decide Republican Nominee -- or NotTen states will vote on a Republican nominee for President tomorrow, 2012's Super Tuesday. One candidate could take a commanding lead. The voters may also continue to support several candidates, making a brokered convention possible.
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Honduras Prison Fire Kills HundredsHonduras is dealing with the aftereffects of a deadly prison blaze. Hundreds are believed to have died in the smokey fire in the Comayagua prison. Authorities are struggling to cope with family members who have gathered at the facility looking for news.
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New Breeds Appear at Westminster Kennel Club Dog ShowBreed judging begins today with group and best in show judging set for tomorrow at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. This is the 136th annual show.Also published on:
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Jerry Sandusky Cleared for Grandchildren VisitsAccused child molester and former Penn State coach Jerry Sandusky had the terms of his bail arrangement changed on Monday. A judge will permit him to visit with most of his grandchildren.Also published on:
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Joplin Visitors Bureau Denies Tornado Tourism ClaimJoplin Convention & Visitors Bureau is denying press reports that they are promoting "tornado tourism". Citizens of the Missouri city are outraged that the idea was even discussed.
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Don Cornelius, 'Soul Train' Creator, Dead at 75Don Cornelius, the creator of the long running dance show Soul Train, has died at the age of 75. The LA County coroner lists the cause of death as suicide by gunshot.
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Kenyan Election Violence Determined to Be Crimes Against HumanityFour Kenyans, prominent in the political affairs of the African nation of Kenya, have been charged by the International Criminal Court. During a period of political violence in Kenya in 2008, the court found that crimes against humanity were committed.
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Joe Paterno Dies, but the Legend LivesWith the death of former Penn State football coach Joe Paterno on Sunday, college sports has lost another of those men that created and defined their sport.Also published on:
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Radioactive Gravel from Japanese Nuke Disaster Used in BuildingsGravel stockpiled near the Fukushima nuclear disaster site has been shipped throughout Japan. That gravel was contaminated by radioactive materials and should not have been used.Also published on:
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Fuel Supplies Reach NomeAs the crews of the US CGC Healy and TV Renda wait for the broken ice around their ships to refreeze, the people of Nome, Alaska, anticipate the delivery of need fuel. That process could begin as early as Sunday, January 15.
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Piracy Crackdown Off SomaliaThe United States Navy and the other forces engaged in anti-piracy efforts off the coast of Somalia have had significant success in the last two weeks. Several vessels and their crews have been freed and at least 68 suspected pirates detained.Also published on:
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Fuel Convoy Reaches NomeThe Coast Guard polar icebreaker Healy and the Russian tanker Renda are 8 nautical miles off the Alaskan coast as they wait for daylight. Slow and careful maneuvering this afternoon will move the tanker as close to Nome's harbor as possible.
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Relief Nears Nome as U.S. Icebreaker Opens Sea LaneThe U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy is clearing a path today for the MV Renda. The Russian tanker is bringing badly needed fuel to the ice bound community of Nome, Alaska.
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Defense Cuts Are Based Upon Strategic GuidancePentagon officials briefed reporters by telephone on Thursday about President Obama's newly announced defense strategy and its implementation over the next decade.
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German Volcano Could Devastate EuropeThe inactive Laacher See volcano is making news since it has the potential to bury much of western Europe under feet of volcanic ash. It is not the only geological danger we face.
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Russians Sail to Rescue of Ice Bound Alaska CommunityBraving 250 miles of ice pack, the Russian tanker Renda is slowly making its way toward the western Alaska town of Nome. Cut off by ice, the town will run out of fuel oil and gasoline without Renda's supplies.
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Pope Embraces Anglicans in U.S. with New OrdinariateOn New Year's Day 2012, Pope Benedict XVI established the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter. This allows Episcopalians and Anglicans in the United States to rejoin the Catholic Church.
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Santa's Gifts for (Mostly Naughty) PoliticiansThroughout 2011 American politicians demonstrated that they needed some help with their lives and their careers. Santa came early with some gifts for the naughty and nice.Also published on:
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New York Condo Goes for $88 MillionRussian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev has bought his 22 year old daughter a nice Christmas present. Ekaterina is reported to be the proud owner of a 6,700-sq-ft condo on Central Park West in New York City. Daddy's generosity? $88 million.
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Tropical Storm Sendong Kills Over 600 in PhilippinesTropical storm Sendong lingered over the southern Philippines for nearly three days last week. With rainfall rates of as much as two inches per hours, flash floods and river flooding brought death and destruction to the region.
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Geminid Meteor Shower Peaks TonightThe annual Geminid meteor shower peaks tonight but the nearly full moon will present a viewing challenge. While the best show is to be seen in regions north of the equator, the Southern Hemisphere will also see the annual shower of space debris.
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U.S. Spy Drone Crashes in SeychellesAn Air Force Reaper drone crashed on landing at the international airport in the Seychelles capital of Mahe Tuesday morning. The MQ-9 drone was part of operations in the Somalia region of Africa.Also published on:
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Nebraska Nuke Plant Placed on Special Inspection StatusNebraska's Fort Calhoun nuclear power plant had been scheduled to resume operations in January. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has placed those plans on hold by placing the plant onto special inspection status.Also published on:
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Police Officer Wounds Self Unloading Pistol at Hartsfield AirportTSA agents at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport discovered a .22 caliber pistol in a passenger's carry on bag this weekend. A police officer was wounded while unloading the gun.
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Michelle Obama Helps Break World RecordGuinness World Records announced today that First Lady Michelle Obama was part of a world record in October. She led a group of 400 joining the effort from the South Lawn of the White House on October 11.Also published on:
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Obama Calls for New Nationalism in HeartlandSpeaking in Osawatomie, Kansas, President Barack Obama used the memory of Teddy Roosevelt to call for "fair play, a fair shot, and a fair share" for the American middle-class. It was a call for a "new nationalism".
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Japan Crash Turns Luxury Cars into ScrapBad weather may have been the cause of a chain reaction accident in Japan Sunday that injured ten. Nearly four million dollars worth of cars, 14 in all, were damaged or totaled.
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Bishop Eddie Long to Take SabbaticalBishop Eddie Long has announced that he will be taking a sabbatical from his duties at Atlanta's New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. He is just the latest television evangelist caught in a sex scandal.Also published on:
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Radioactive Water Leaks at Japanese Nuke SiteThe efforts to control the tsunami-damaged Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant suffered another setback over the weekend as thousands of gallons of radioactive water flooded a treatment building. A small amount ran off into the nearby ocean.Also published on:
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Japan Damaged Nuke Plants Still Not Under ControlThe fight to control the meltdowns in three of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear reactors continues. Nearly 10 months after Japan suffered a historic earthquake and tsunami, the melted uranium continues to generate radiation and heat.Also published on:
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Fewer Children Receiving Vaccines in U.SThe Associated Press has released its study of exemptions to school vaccine schedules nationally. Exemptions for required immunizations to enter public school are up. The increase in illnesses like whooping cough are one result.Also published on:
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Victoria's Secret Fashion Show on CBS TonightCBS hosts the seventeenth annual Victoria's Secret Fashion Show tonight at 10 pm EST. One of the highlights of the show will be model Miranda Kerr modeling a $2.5 million jeweled bra.
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All U.S. Troops Out of Iraq by ChristmasBrig. Gen. Bradley Becker, Deputy Commanding General (Support) for United States Division – Center, told reporters today that all U.S. troops will be out of Iraq by Christmas. Nearly all will be home for the holiday.
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U.S. Marines Headed to AustraliaPresident Barack Obama and Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard have issued a joint announcement that U.S. Marines will be deploying to northern Australia for a continuing training mission.
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Fire Island Resort Businesses BurnThe heart of the Fire Island Pines business district was ravaged by fire overnight. The Pavilion and the LaFountaine Building were gutted. Multiple fire departments fought the blaze in the popular summer resort.
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Va Nuke Plant Restarts After QuakeOn November 11, Dominion Virginia Power began the process of restarting the two nuclear reactors at the North Anna power plant. Both reactors had been shut down after the earthquake of August 23, 2011.
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Alaska Being Pounded by Winter Super StormA record storm is pounding the west coast of Alaska, bringing hurricane force winds, heavy snow and a massive storm surge. The many, small coastal communities are bracing for the worst.
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Air Force Wraps Up Iraqi DeploymentMG Russ Handy spoke with reporters today about the U.S. Air Force's role in the withdrawal from Iraq. He also talked about the structure and preparedness of the Iraqi Air Force.
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U.S. Navy Fires Railgun for 1000th TimeThe railgun has been a staple of many of the stories written by science fiction writers because of its enormous potential. The U.S. Navy is turning that fiction into fact.
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U.S. Tests Nationwide Alert System November 9At 2 pm on November 9 the Emergency Alert System, formerly the Emergency Broadcast System, will be tested nationwide in the U.S. While the system has regular tests at state and local levels, this is the first national test.
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Manhattan Mosquitoes Are BitingThe Upper West Side of Manhattan is beset by biting swarms of mosquitoes that are coming out of the sewers. Current control programs by New York City seem ineffective.
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Suicide in America's Military and VeteransA survey of the data on suicide in America's veteran and military populations.
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Serious Illness Outbreaks in New YorkNew York residents have not escaped a number of illness outbreaks that public health authorities are monitoring. Both food borne illnesses and contagious diseases are being seen locally as well as nationally.
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Andy Rooney Seriously Ill92 year old television icon Andy Rooney is hospitalized after serious complications from minor surgery. The Sixty Minutes fixture retired from his weekly commentary just three weeks ago.
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200 Years After the War of 1812Few nations survive the capture and burning of their capital. The United States did, during the War of 1812. The bicentennial anniversary of that war is just three months away.
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Obama Sends US Troops to Central AfricaPresident Obama has followed up on months of effort to support Central Africa in their fight against the cult-like Lord's Resistance Army. On Oct. 12, the first of 100 U.S. military were sent to Uganda to "provide information, advice, and assistance."
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Moving Home from Iraq, by the NumbersMG Thomas Spoehr spoke with reporters on Thursday and discussed the on-going transition of bases and equipment to Iraqis from U.S. control. The December 31 deadline to leave is approaching.
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How Will the United States Punish Iran for Murder Plot?With the discovery of a plot to kill the Saudi Ambassador to the U.S. by bombing his favorite Washington restaurant, the Obama administration has to decide what to do about Iran.
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More Computer Virus Issues for U.S. MilitaryThe Air Force's computer systems that allow pilots to remotely fly drones all over the planet has become infected with a computer virus. Eradicating the virus is proving difficult.Also published on:
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Air Force Returns to Attack Texas WildfiresThe drought and related wildfires continue in Texas. A national shortage of civilian air tankers has resulted in the return of Air Force aircraft and crews to fly fire retardant drops.Also published on:
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Veterans Treatment Courts Divert Troubled Vets from Path to JailU.S. military veterans can become involved with the criminal justice system due to substance abuse or mental health issues. Veterans Treatment Courts offer a way for these vets to avoid imprisonment and turn their lives around.
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New York Trembles when Kodak StumblesKodak, a former industrial giant, is based in Rochester, NY. As it struggles to transition from film making to a digital future, the company has experienced serious financial woes.
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Afghan Police Blunting Taliban EffortsMG Walter Golden described recent high-profile Taliban attacks as failures, after not creating mass casualties as planned. Afghan National Police units contained and defeated the terrorists.
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Dam Safety in Upstate New York QuestionedTwo key dams operated by the Army Corps of Engineers have been rated as unsafe and marginally safe in Western New York. The safe operation of these dams prevents increased flooding from Upstate New York to Chesapeake Bay.
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Bahrain Votes as Protests ContinueBahrain held parliamentary elections on Saturday to fill 14 seats in the lower house left empty by the walkout of a Shia backed political party. The walkout protested security measures taken after "Arab Spring" demonstrations in February and March.
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Air Force Cross to Be Awarded to Tech Sgt. Robert Gutierrez Jr.He thought about the daughter that he had never seen as he fought for his life. Badly wounded, then Staff Sgt. Robert Gutierrez, Jr. called in air strike after air strike as his Special Forces unit carried out their mission deep in the Afghan mountains.
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Minot Sees Recovery After Record FloodWhen the water of the Mouse River overtopped the levees in Minot on June 22, ten thousand people were evacuated. As the water receded, thousands of homes were damaged or destroyed. Now, the community sees some signs of recovery.
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Travis Tritt Cancels Joplin Appearance Over Use of Recovery FundsTravis Tritt was scheduled to appear at a free concert in Joplin, Missouri this Sunday. He has canceled, citing the City's use of donated recovery funds to pay concert expenses. He does not feel it is appropriate.
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Tropical Storms Land One-Two Punch on Upstate New YorkUpstate New York experienced rainfall from, not one, but two tropical storms in the last several days. Record flooding has occurred.
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How Sub Base New London Coped with Hurricane IreneNaval Submarine Base New London met Hurricane Irene head on August 28. Pre-planning and preparation were the keys to the experience and the base survived.
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Special Election to Fill Anthony Weiner's Congressional SeatWith the special election to fill the Congressional seat of Anthony Weiner just a week away, Republican Bob Turner may have an edge. Recent polling shows him ahead of Democrat candidate David Weprin.
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18 Months After Earthquake, Haiti Still StrugglesHaiti continues to struggle with recovery after the January 2010 earthquake. Many Haitians remain in refugee camps. Cholera is still epidemic. The continuing role of U.N. peacekeepers is being questioned.Also published on:
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More Dead in Texas WildfiresThe Bastrop County, Texas, fire has claimed two victims, according to media reports. This brings the death toll for the three days to four. Hundreds of homes have burned and tens of thousands of acres of land.
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Central Texas BurnsAs the winds from former Hurricane Lee wrapped around its center and hit Texas, the fires began. Dozens of wildfires fanned by the high winds began Sunday and still burn today. Two deaths are reported.
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Hurricane Irene Federal Aid for Vermont Slow in ComingVermont Gov. Peter Shumlin sent the state's application for a major disaster declaration to President Obama Thursday. FEMA funds will require action by Congress. The Federal Transportation Department has released $5 million for emergency road repairs.
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Hurricane Irene's Rainfall a Weighty MatterFor a time, the safety of the Gilboa Dam, on Schoharie Creek in the scenic Catskill Mountains of New York was in doubt as the rain from Hurricane Irene fell. The dam survived without damage. Just what did it have to deal with?
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Upstate New York Flooding RecedesThe flooding experienced by many upstate New York communities after the heavy rainfall from Hurricane Irene is receding. Road and bridge closures are widespread and some areas remain under water.
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Hurricane Irene: Flood Threat in Upstate New YorkAs Hurricane Irene moves out of the Northeast, heavy rains continue to fall in many parts of New York State. A number of lakes and streams are swollen and flooding is likely in most areas.
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National Guard Responds to Hurricane IreneAt least seven states have activated National Guard units in response to Hurricane Irene's approach. Vulnerable assets such as aircraft have been sent inland. Relief and rescue forces are being pre-positioned.
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Hurricane Irene: Military, Coast Guard PrepareAs Hurricane Irene moves closer to the U.S. mainland, the military, National Guard and the Coast Guard are ramping up their preparations. Relief assets are being pre-positioned and vulnerable ships and planes relocated.
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Military Prepares for Hurricane IreneHurricane Irene, the first hurricane of the 2011 season, is approaching the east coast of the United States. The U.S. military and the National Guard are preparing for the worst and hoping for the best.
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Historic Earthquake in D.C. Results in Historic Senate SessionTuesday's 5.8 magnitude earthquake that rocked the East Coast was historic in nature. So too was the U.S. Senate session that was held that same afternoon.Also published on:
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Biofuel a Navy PriorityNavy Secretary Ray Mabus briefed reported Monday on the U.S. Navy's progress with alternative energy programs, including biofuel. He laid out the four principles the biofuel program is operating under.Also published on:
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Navy Goes GreenNavy Secretary Ray Maybus spoke with reporters today about the Navy's alternative energy programs. From solar power to geothermal to biofuel, the Navy is reducing energy costs and its carbon footprint at the same time.
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Is America's Military Body Armor Defective?On August 1, the Department of Defense's Inspector General issued its fourth report on the testing and procurement process for body armor. The reports were prepared at the request of Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (D-NY).
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Sinai Fighting Endangers U.S. TroopsThe United States is the major contributor to the Multinational Force & Observers (MFO) which monitors the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel on the Sinai Peninsula. Police actions and terrorist attacks today are putting these troops at risk.
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Ohio Woman Finds Missing Blimp in BackyardThe Hangar One Vodka blimp took a little excursion on its own on Sunday. High winds broke the unmanned airship free of its moorings and it drifted into a backyard about two miles away.
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Is Weiner's Congressional Seat Up for Grabs?With five weeks left until the special election to fill the Congressional seat vacated by Anthony Weiner, a new poll shows the Republican candidate within striking distance. Will Weinergate cost the Democrats a former Democratic Congressional spot?
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D.B. Cooper Remains at LargeMarla Wynn Cooper, from Oklahoma, told the FBI last week that her uncle might be the legendary skyjacker. In 1971 a Dan Cooper, popularly known as D.B. Cooper, jumped from an airliner in flight with a $200,000 ransom. He has never been located.
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The Famine Crisis in SomaliaThe prolonged drought in the Horn of Africa has brought famine to the dysfunctional nation of Somalia. The hardest hit regions of the country are controlled by an Islamist militia that refuses to allow aid to enter.
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New York State Unemployment Numbers Mixed in JuneThe June 2011 unemployment figures for New York State and its metropolitan areas were released August 3. Year over year comparisons generally showed slight improvements though historical data shows a grimmer picture.
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Moving Out of Iraq UnderwayMaj. Gen. Thomas Richardson gave a news briefing Wednesday covering the drawdown of U.S. troops in Iraq and the concurrent drawdown of equipment. Over $400 million in equipment has been given to the Iraqis while more has been shipped out of the country.
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Radiation Still a Concern at FukushimaThe recovery efforts at the Fukushima nuclear power plant continue. Since the earthquake and resulting tsunami struck the site on March 11, the slow process of regaining control of the reactors and clearing the damage has proceeded.
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Giffords One of Several to Vote in Congress Despite Medical IssuesGabrielle Gifford's emotional entrance into the house Chamber on Monday to cast her vote on the debt ceiling bill stirred many Americans. She was not the first to overcome medical issues to serve in Congress.
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Turkish Military Chiefs Resign in ProtestThe Turkish Chief of the General Staff has resigned as well as those the heads of the Army, Navy and Air Force. The resignations are a result of a dispute over promotions to be given to officers charged with plotting a coup.
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Typhoon Juaning Leaves Flooding and Deaths in PhilippinesThe latest tropical typhoon to hit the Philippines has moved into the South China Sea, leaving flooding and deaths behind. Winds were not the issue. NASA found two inch per hour rainfall in many parts of the storm.
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Ghana Site of Latest U.S. Humanitarian Exercise in AfricaThe West African nation of Ghana is the site of the MEDFLAG 11 exercise, a joint undertaking of the U.S. Africa Command and the Ghanaian military. Joint training and medical outreach to needy locals will improve knowledge and skills of all participants.
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Minot Airmen Cope with Record FloodingThe men and women serving at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota have been hard hit by the historic flooding along the Mouse or Souris River. Over 1,100 are now facing an uncertain future when they return to the ruins of their homes.
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The Minot Flood: One Airman's StoryOver 1,100 airmen from Minot Air Force Base have been directly impacted by the Great Mouse River Flood of 2011. The story of one airman and his family represents the tales that so many have to tell. And the story is not ended.
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Bridge Closed Due to Flood Risk in Minot, N.D.At one point during this year's flooding, the 83 Bypass was the only north / south route open to the citizens of Minot over the Souris River. Now, as the waters slowly recede, engineers have discovered river channel changes that may threaten the bridge.Also published on:
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Corps of Engineers Continues Assistance in Missouri River Flood FightThe Missouri River continues its record flooding and the Army Corps of Engineers remains in the middle of the flood fight. The six main stem dams are at or near capacity and levees remain threatened all along the river.
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South Sudan Celebrates IndependenceThe world's newest nation will be born on Saturday, July 9. The Republic of South Sudan will celebrate its independence from Sudan amidst border conflicts and grinding poverty.
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Wounded Iraqi Vet Dies in Fall from RollercoasterArmy Sgt. James Hackemer lost both legs in a bomb blast in Iraq and suffered a severe brain injury. Now living in Western New York, Hackemer was killed when he fell from the Ride of Steel roller coaster at the Darien Lake Theme Park on Friday.
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Yellowstone River Oil Spill Cleanup ContinuesA week after a twelve inch pipe carrying crude oil broke beneath the Yellowstone River in Montana, cleanup continues. High water has spread the oil into nearby marshlands.Also published on:
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Minot Air Force Base Personnel Cope with FloodingMinot Air Force Base is assisting the families of personnel forced to evacuate the city of Minot due to flooding on the Souris River. Personnel are also taking an active role in the flood fight.
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The Attack of the Giant HogweedGiant Hogweed is coming to a community near you. Since it was introduced in 1917, this noxious weed has slowly spread. Its sap is dangerous, resulting in blisters, scarring and potential blindness.
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Phoenix Experiences a Haboob, a Historic EventIt looks like a wall of sand as it approaches. The haboob is a dust storm that makes a great photo but can be deadly, as well. Phoenix, AZ, just experienced such a storm.
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How the U.S. Military Celebrates the Fourth of JulyNo matter where members of the United States military might be, the Fourth of July is celebrated. Here is how American troops celebrated this Independence Day.
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Yellowstone River Oil Spill Spreads over 40 Miles DownstreamA Saturday morning break in an oil pipeline has dumped at least 10,000 barrels of crude oil into the scenic Yellow Stone River in Montana. The flood-swollen river is spreading the resulting oil slick far from the break.Also published on:
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U.S. Military Focuses on Training with Six Months Left to Iraqi PulloutLt. Gen. Frank Helmick recently brief reporters on the status of U.S. and Iraqi forces, with six months remaining until the deadline for U.S. troops to leave Iraq. Helmick made it clear no talks have yet been held about extending the timetable.
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Six Months of Mother Nature's FuryThe first six months of 2011 saw many natural disasters across the United States. A partial list of these spans the nation from coast to coast.
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Minot, N.D., Waits for the Flood to Pass as River Levels DropWith the crest of the flood past the North Dakota city of Minot, its residents are in a waiting game. The river levels are dropping but remain high enough that flood recovery is impossible for now.Also published on:
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Dysfunctional New York GovernmentThe passage of a same sex marriage bill by the New York legislature is being hailed as proof that the system works. It was the last item acted on before the summer recess, hardly a shining moment.
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Flood Crest Passes Minot, N.D.; Little Relief in SightThe crest of the Souris River flooding has passed Minot, N.D., and is now adding to the misery of the smaller communities downstream. The flood in the city continues and no end is in sight.Also published on:
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National Guard Brings Everything to Minot Flood FightThe North Dakota National Guard has been involved in the fight to save Minot, ND, from record flooding since the beginning. The backgrounds of its soldiers and the unusual tools it can bring have made a difference.
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High Runoff to Blame for Missouri River FloodingAmidst criticism over its handling of the flooding along the Missouri River and its tributaries, the Army Corps of Engineers has released data showing the weather conditions in the Missouri basin. Massive runoff totals are blamed for the current flooding.
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What Minot, N.D., Should Do After the Record Flood SubsidesThe historic flood in Minot, N.D., continues, and predictions are that the water may not disappear for months. What should Minot do after the water drains off?
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1,000 Air Force Personnel, Families Evacuated from Flood Zone in Minot, N.D.As the waters of the Souris River flow over the levees in Minot, N.D., about 1,000 Air Force personnel from Minot Air Base have been evacuated from the flood zone. At the same time, 500 members of the state National Guard are in Minot to assist authorities.
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Scarlet Fever Outbreak Kills Two in Hong KongAn outbreak of antibiotic resistant scarlet fever in China and Hong Kong continues to grow. At least two schoolchildren are believed to have died from the illness.