This year's Gay Pride march kicked off at 2 p.m. in Paris yesterday, the Euro News website reports today (June 30, 2019).
The 5.5km march saw participants convene at Montparnasse and head to the direction of Republique.
Around half a million people take part in the annual event each year.
Pride events were also held yesterday in Dublin, Milan, Helsinki, Barcelona, Madrid, London, Manchester, and Geneva.
Sunday, June 30, 2019
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Jimmy Carter: Trump Lost the 2016 Election; Facts Show Russian Meddling Made Him Pres.
Former President Jimmy Carter said yesterday that Donald Trump is an illegitimate president due to Russian interference in the 2016 election, the Yahoo News website reports today (June 29, 2019).
Carter, 94, was speaking at a Carter Center event on human rights in Leesburg, Va., when he was asked how he would deal with Russian meddling in the last presidential election.
"The president himself should condemn it, admit it happened..." said Carter.
"He [Trump] lost the election and he was put into office because the Russians interfered on his behalf," Carter added.
Carter, 94, was speaking at a Carter Center event on human rights in Leesburg, Va., when he was asked how he would deal with Russian meddling in the last presidential election.
"The president himself should condemn it, admit it happened..." said Carter.
"He [Trump] lost the election and he was put into office because the Russians interfered on his behalf," Carter added.
Friday, June 28, 2019
The Church in California Becomes Under Attack; Lawmakers Make Pastors Support LGBT Ideology
The California State Assembly has passed a resolution telling pastors to affirm homosexuality in violation of their biblical beliefs, the CBN website reports today (June 28, 2019).
Assemblyman Evan Low and three dozen other lawmakers pushed the resolution in the state Assembly Judiciary Committee, which tells California religious leaders what to preach from their pulpits.
The measure passed this week with the help of Dr. Kevin Mannoia, Azusa Pacific University chaplain.
Liberty Counsel says Mannoia "has become a prop for the LGBT agenda by directing pastors and counselors to reject biblical views of sexuality..."
Assemblyman Evan Low and three dozen other lawmakers pushed the resolution in the state Assembly Judiciary Committee, which tells California religious leaders what to preach from their pulpits.
The measure passed this week with the help of Dr. Kevin Mannoia, Azusa Pacific University chaplain.
Liberty Counsel says Mannoia "has become a prop for the LGBT agenda by directing pastors and counselors to reject biblical views of sexuality..."
Thursday, June 27, 2019
Two-Thirds of College Grads Regret Degrees; Graduates' Number 1 Regret Is Student Loans
A survey by the employees compensation research firm Pay Scale shows almost two-thirds of college graduates have regrets about their college degrees, The New American website reports today (June 27, 2019).
The study was based on 248,000 responses to Pay Scale's online salary survey between April and May 2019.
Among those holding a bachelor's degree or higher, 66.1 percent of respondents expressed having regret about their college education, while only 33.9 percent had no regrets.
The top regret of graduates was student loans, with 27.1 percent listing it as their greatest misgiving.
The study was based on 248,000 responses to Pay Scale's online salary survey between April and May 2019.
Among those holding a bachelor's degree or higher, 66.1 percent of respondents expressed having regret about their college education, while only 33.9 percent had no regrets.
The top regret of graduates was student loans, with 27.1 percent listing it as their greatest misgiving.
Wednesday, June 26, 2019
US Greek Orthodox Church Installs a New Leader; Abp. Epitophoros Has Succeeded Abp. Demetrios
The Greek Orthodox Church of the U.S. -- which has some 1.5 million members -- on June 22 installed its first new leader in 20 years, the Religion News website reports today (June 26, 2019).
Epidophoros Lambriniadis, 51, a native of Istanbul and a longtime theology professor in Greece, was enthroned as archbishop in a ceremony at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in Manhattan.
Epidophoros was unanimously elected by senior Greek Orthodox officials last month to succeed Archbishop Demetrios, who retired at the age of 91 after serving in the post since 1999.
For Archbishop Epidophoros, his first priority is to complete the construction of New York's St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church that was destroyed in the 9/11/ 2001 terrorist attacks.
Epidophoros Lambriniadis, 51, a native of Istanbul and a longtime theology professor in Greece, was enthroned as archbishop in a ceremony at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in Manhattan.
Epidophoros was unanimously elected by senior Greek Orthodox officials last month to succeed Archbishop Demetrios, who retired at the age of 91 after serving in the post since 1999.
For Archbishop Epidophoros, his first priority is to complete the construction of New York's St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church that was destroyed in the 9/11/ 2001 terrorist attacks.
Tuesday, June 25, 2019
Iran Calls US Sanctions Outrageous and Idiotic; Trump Threatens Iran Attack with Obliteration
Having canceled a retaliatory strike against Iran last week after it shot down a U.S. drone, President Trump now says Iran deserves strong economic sanctions, The New American website reports today (June 25, 2019).
In fact, Trump unleashed a tweet today threatening Iran with "obliteration."
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called the sanctions "outrageous" and "idiotic."
Today, Trump tweeted, "Any attack by Iran on anything American will be met with great and overwhelming force and obliteration. No more John Kerry and Obama!"
In fact, Trump unleashed a tweet today threatening Iran with "obliteration."
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called the sanctions "outrageous" and "idiotic."
Today, Trump tweeted, "Any attack by Iran on anything American will be met with great and overwhelming force and obliteration. No more John Kerry and Obama!"
Rabbi Asks Worshipers to Bring Guns to Services; Says Boston Synagogue Needs Guns for Protection
A rabbi in Boston has asked congregants to consider bringing guns to religious services as a form of protection in response to recent shootings at synagogues across the U.S., the JTA (Jewish Telegraphic Agency) website reports today (June 25, 2019).
Rabbi Dan Rodkin of Shaloh House in Brighton, a Boston neighborhood with a large number of Jews, said the rise in hate crimes across the country influenced his thinking.
Rodkin fears that increased safety measures at Shaloh House -- including security cameras, reinforced glass widows, and panic buttons -- are not sufficient protection.
Several of his congregants -- including former soldiers and retired police -- are now carrying guns into daily services at Rodkin's synagogue.
Rabbi Dan Rodkin of Shaloh House in Brighton, a Boston neighborhood with a large number of Jews, said the rise in hate crimes across the country influenced his thinking.
Rodkin fears that increased safety measures at Shaloh House -- including security cameras, reinforced glass widows, and panic buttons -- are not sufficient protection.
Several of his congregants -- including former soldiers and retired police -- are now carrying guns into daily services at Rodkin's synagogue.
Monday, June 24, 2019
Opposition Wins Istanbul in Shock to Erdogan; Many Turks Reject Erdogan's Dictatorial Power
Turkey's main opposition party claimed a decisive victory yesterday in Istanbul's election, dealing one of the biggest blows to President Tayyip Erdogan during his 16 years in power, the NBC News website reports today (June 24, 2019).
Ekrem Imamoglu, mayoral candidate of the secularist Republican People's Party, was leading with 54 percent of votes against 45 percent for Erdogan's AK Party candidate, with 99 percent of ballots counted.
The election was seen as a test of Turks' ability to check what many saw as their president's increasingly authoritarian power.
"Today, 16 million Istanbul residents have renewed our faith in democracy and refreshed our trust in justice," Imamoglu told supporters.
Ekrem Imamoglu, mayoral candidate of the secularist Republican People's Party, was leading with 54 percent of votes against 45 percent for Erdogan's AK Party candidate, with 99 percent of ballots counted.
The election was seen as a test of Turks' ability to check what many saw as their president's increasingly authoritarian power.
"Today, 16 million Istanbul residents have renewed our faith in democracy and refreshed our trust in justice," Imamoglu told supporters.
Sunday, June 23, 2019
Trump's Israeli-Palestinian Peace Plan Slammed; Palestinians:Bribe Attempt for Israeli Occupation
U.S. President Donald Trump's economic vision as part of a wider plan to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was met with contempt, repudiation, and exasperation in the Arab world, the Jerusalem Post website reports today (June 23, 2019).
The $50 billion "peace to prosperity" plan, set to be presented by Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner at a conference in Bahrain next week envisions a global investment fund to lift the Palestinian and Arab state economies.
"Homelands cannot be sold, even for all the money in the world," Egyptian analyst Gamal Fahmy said.
The PLO dismissed Kushner's plans as "all abstract promises." It said they were an attempt to bribe the Palestinians into accepting Israeli occupation.
The $50 billion "peace to prosperity" plan, set to be presented by Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner at a conference in Bahrain next week envisions a global investment fund to lift the Palestinian and Arab state economies.
"Homelands cannot be sold, even for all the money in the world," Egyptian analyst Gamal Fahmy said.
The PLO dismissed Kushner's plans as "all abstract promises." It said they were an attempt to bribe the Palestinians into accepting Israeli occupation.
Saturday, June 22, 2019
Trump Orders Raids against Illegal Migrants; Targets Families with Court Removal Orders
U.S. President Donald Trump said today (June 22, 2019) that migrants who will be targeted in a nationwide roundup should return to their native countries, according to the VOA News website.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency will round up and deport families who have received a removal order from a U.S. immigration court.
The operation will begin tomorrow and will target 2,000 families in large cities, including Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and Miami.
Trump tweeted today that ICE agents will pursue those who "have run from the law and run from the courts."
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency will round up and deport families who have received a removal order from a U.S. immigration court.
The operation will begin tomorrow and will target 2,000 families in large cities, including Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and Miami.
Trump tweeted today that ICE agents will pursue those who "have run from the law and run from the courts."
Friday, June 21, 2019
ISIS Bomb Plot against Pittsburgh Church Foiled; Undercover FBI Officials Arrest a Syrian Refugee
A 21-year-old Syrian refugee from Pittsburgh was arrested on a federal complaint this week, after discussions with undercover FBI officials uncovered a plot to bomb a North Pittsburgh church in the name of ISIS, the Worthy News website reports today (June 21, 2019).
Mustafa Mousab Alowemer was charged with one count of lending material support to ISIS, and two counts of distributing explosive-related information with an eye to bombing a Christian church.
"I am grateful nothing did happen and I'm grateful that we are able to show that God covered us," said Pastor Michael Day of Legacy International Worship Center, the targeted church.
Alowemer was admitted as a refugee to the U.S. on August 1, 2016, and awaits a detention hearing today.
Mustafa Mousab Alowemer was charged with one count of lending material support to ISIS, and two counts of distributing explosive-related information with an eye to bombing a Christian church.
"I am grateful nothing did happen and I'm grateful that we are able to show that God covered us," said Pastor Michael Day of Legacy International Worship Center, the targeted church.
Alowemer was admitted as a refugee to the U.S. on August 1, 2016, and awaits a detention hearing today.
Bob Kraft Pledges $20M to Fight Anti-Semitism; Foundation to Tackle Rising Tide of Jewish Hate
The owner of the New England Patriots, Robert Kraft, accepted Israel's prestigious Genesis Prize at a lavish ceremony yesterday in Jerusalem, where he pledged $20 million to establish a foundation dedicated to combating anti-Semitism and the Palestinian-led boycott movement against Israel, according to the Times of Israel website.
In his keynote address, Kraft told the audience of Israeli and international dignitaries that he was "humbled and blessed" to accept the award, vowing that his new foundation would seek to tackle the rising tide of anti-Semitism.
"I believe we can use this platform of social media to make a genuine and lasting impact on the rising tide of hate," he said.The ceremony offered Kraft a welcome reprieve just four months after he was charged with soliciting sex from a prostitute at a Florida massage parlor.
The 78-year-old billionaire has battled the sex charges, and the case against him now appears to be crumbling.
In his keynote address, Kraft told the audience of Israeli and international dignitaries that he was "humbled and blessed" to accept the award, vowing that his new foundation would seek to tackle the rising tide of anti-Semitism.
"I believe we can use this platform of social media to make a genuine and lasting impact on the rising tide of hate," he said.The ceremony offered Kraft a welcome reprieve just four months after he was charged with soliciting sex from a prostitute at a Florida massage parlor.
The 78-year-old billionaire has battled the sex charges, and the case against him now appears to be crumbling.
Thursday, June 20, 2019
Iran Blasts US Drone Over International Waters; Trump: "You'll Soon Find Out" If US Strikes Iran
U.S. President Donald Trump hinted today (June 20, 2019) that the U.S. may launch an air strike against Iran in retaliation for Iran shooting down a U.S. Navy drone, according to the RT website.
The U.S. military insists the drone was in international waters, while Iran claims it was over Iranian land.
"This was an unprovoked attack on a U.S. surveillance asset in international airspace," said Captain Bill Urban, spokesman for CENTCOM (Central Command).
Asked today if the U.S. was considering a retaliatory strike against Iran, Trump told reporters at the White House, "You'll soon find out."
The U.S. military insists the drone was in international waters, while Iran claims it was over Iranian land.
"This was an unprovoked attack on a U.S. surveillance asset in international airspace," said Captain Bill Urban, spokesman for CENTCOM (Central Command).
Asked today if the U.S. was considering a retaliatory strike against Iran, Trump told reporters at the White House, "You'll soon find out."
High Court OKs WWI Cross on Md.Public Land; Reverses a Lower Court Unconst.Cross Decision
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled today (June 20, 2019) that a 40-foot World War I memorial cross could stay on public land at a Maryland intersection, according to the NPR website.
The 7 to 2 decision reverses a lower court ruling that said the memorial is unconstitutional because it is in public land and maintained at taxpayer expense.
The high court's ruling is a major victory for religious groups and the American Legion, which warned that if the cross had to be moved, so too would other crosses that serve as war memorials.
The concrete cross is located in the middle of a busy median strip in Bladensburg, Maryland.
The 7 to 2 decision reverses a lower court ruling that said the memorial is unconstitutional because it is in public land and maintained at taxpayer expense.
The high court's ruling is a major victory for religious groups and the American Legion, which warned that if the cross had to be moved, so too would other crosses that serve as war memorials.
The concrete cross is located in the middle of a busy median strip in Bladensburg, Maryland.
Wednesday, June 19, 2019
Vatican May Allow Married Priests in Amazon; Due to Lack of Priests in Brazil's Forest Region
Vatican officials are expressing an openness to allowing older, married men to become priests in remote areas like the Amazon in South America, the Christian Post website reports today (January 19, 2019).
A working document was prepared in advance of the Special Assembly of the Synod of Bishops for the Pan-Amazonian Region, scheduled to take place in October.
The document also also asks the the Synod to consider allowing married men of good status to become priests.
The Vatican noted that consideration of allowing the ordination of married men was in response to the lack of priests in the region.
A working document was prepared in advance of the Special Assembly of the Synod of Bishops for the Pan-Amazonian Region, scheduled to take place in October.
The document also also asks the the Synod to consider allowing married men of good status to become priests.
The Vatican noted that consideration of allowing the ordination of married men was in response to the lack of priests in the region.
Quebec Bans Rel. Symbols in Public Sector Jobs; Bans Head Scarves, Skullcaps, Turbans, Crosses
The Quebec government passed a bill on June 16 barring schoolteachers, police officers, judges and other public employees from wearing religious symbols in the workplace, the NY Times website reports today (June 19, 2019).
Francois Legault, premier of Quebec province, had called the bill a necessary measure to ensure the separation between religion and state in a secular province.
It applies to Muslim head scarves, Jewish skullcaps, Sikh turbans, and Christian crosses, among other symbols.
Legault had also argued that the bill -- which passed 73 to 35 -- was supported by a majority of Quebecers.
Francois Legault, premier of Quebec province, had called the bill a necessary measure to ensure the separation between religion and state in a secular province.
It applies to Muslim head scarves, Jewish skullcaps, Sikh turbans, and Christian crosses, among other symbols.
Legault had also argued that the bill -- which passed 73 to 35 -- was supported by a majority of Quebecers.
Tuesday, June 18, 2019
Trump:ICE to Remove Millions of Illegal Aliens; About 12 Million Illegal Aliens in US Must Leave
President Donald Trump tweeted yesterday that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will begin removing "millions" of undocumented immigrants next week, the Daily Beast website reports today (June 18, 2019).
"Next week ICE will begin the process of removing the millions of illegal aliens who have illicitly found their way into the United States," Trump tweeted.
There are approximately 12 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S.
The majority of them are from Mexico and Central American countries.
"Next week ICE will begin the process of removing the millions of illegal aliens who have illicitly found their way into the United States," Trump tweeted.
There are approximately 12 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S.
The majority of them are from Mexico and Central American countries.
Supreme Court Backs Bakers in Lesbian Case; Refused to Bake a Wedding Cake for Lesbians
The U.S. Supreme Court yesterday handed religious liberty advocates a victory when it vacated a lower court's opinion that had ordered a Christian baker to design a cake for a lesbian wedding, the Christian Headlines website reports today (June 18, 2019).
At issue was a ruling by the Oregon Court of Appeals that upheld a state decision forcing Aaron and Melissa Klein to pay a $135,000 penalty after they refused to design a cake celebrating a wedding for a lesbian couple.
The Kleins closed their business, known as "Sweet Cakes by Melissa."
"This is a victory for Aaron and Melissa Klein and for religious liberty for all Americans," said Kelly Shackelford, president and CEO of First Liberty Institute..."The message from the Court is clear, government hostility toward religious Americans will not be tolerated."
At issue was a ruling by the Oregon Court of Appeals that upheld a state decision forcing Aaron and Melissa Klein to pay a $135,000 penalty after they refused to design a cake celebrating a wedding for a lesbian couple.
The Kleins closed their business, known as "Sweet Cakes by Melissa."
"This is a victory for Aaron and Melissa Klein and for religious liberty for all Americans," said Kelly Shackelford, president and CEO of First Liberty Institute..."The message from the Court is clear, government hostility toward religious Americans will not be tolerated."
Monday, June 17, 2019
Trump Sending Another 1K Troops to Mideast; Due to Iran's Hostile Behavior in Persian Gulf
The Pentagon announced late today (June 17, 2019) that it is sending another 1,000 troops to the Middle East in response to Iran's "hostile behavior" of attacking two oil tankers in the Persian Gulf last week, according to the NY Daily News website.
Acting Defense Secretary Pat Shanahan said in a statement that the deployment decision was made in consultation with the White House and Gen. Joseph Dunford, the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff.
The troops will serve in a "defensive" capacity to address "air, naval, and ground-based threats in the Middle East," Shanahan said, citing "hostile behavior by Iranian forces and their proxy groups."
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said yesterday that the U.S. had "unmistakable" evidence to prove Iran was responsible for the oil tanker attacks last week. He also openly mulled military action against Iran.
Acting Defense Secretary Pat Shanahan said in a statement that the deployment decision was made in consultation with the White House and Gen. Joseph Dunford, the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff.
The troops will serve in a "defensive" capacity to address "air, naval, and ground-based threats in the Middle East," Shanahan said, citing "hostile behavior by Iranian forces and their proxy groups."
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said yesterday that the U.S. had "unmistakable" evidence to prove Iran was responsible for the oil tanker attacks last week. He also openly mulled military action against Iran.
Fascist Info Found in Northeastern Univ.Library; Questionnaires Sought Students' Fascist Choices
Northeastern University officials are meeting today (June 17, 2019) with a graduate student after he reported finding paper questionnaires inside a campus library book that included references to Hitler, had a link to an alt-right blog, and asked readers to indicate their areas of interest in fascist topics, according to the MSN website.
"We are aware and the head of our library system is in contact with the student who found the materials," Renata Nyul, a university spokeswoman, said.
Matt Bowser, 28, who is pursuing a doctorate in history at Northeastern, said he was researching fascist movements of the 1930s for his dissertation at the university's Snell Library -- the largest college library in Boston -- when he discovered 10 questionnaires inside Robert Paxton's "The Anatomy of Fascism."
The cover of the questionnaires was titled Northeastern University European Resistance. One page had a series of questions which invited participants to indicate their "areas of interest," including Alt-Right, Fascism, Trump, White Genocide, Immigration, and International Jewry.
"We are aware and the head of our library system is in contact with the student who found the materials," Renata Nyul, a university spokeswoman, said.
Matt Bowser, 28, who is pursuing a doctorate in history at Northeastern, said he was researching fascist movements of the 1930s for his dissertation at the university's Snell Library -- the largest college library in Boston -- when he discovered 10 questionnaires inside Robert Paxton's "The Anatomy of Fascism."
The cover of the questionnaires was titled Northeastern University European Resistance. One page had a series of questions which invited participants to indicate their "areas of interest," including Alt-Right, Fascism, Trump, White Genocide, Immigration, and International Jewry.
Sunday, June 16, 2019
Netanyahu Opens Trump Cite in Occupied Golan; Due to Trump Recognizing Golan as Israeli Land
Standing under an oversized sign for a village his temporary government has no authority to build, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took his friendship with Donald Trump to a new level today (June 16, 2019), by inaugurating "Trump Heights" in the Syrian-occupied Golan Heights, according to the RT website.
"It's a historic day," said Israel's prime minister, standing next to U.S. ambassador David Friedman.
Netanyahu spoke of the name as a symbol of gratitude for Trump's decisions to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital and Golan as part of Israel.
The Golan Heights region was seized from Syria by Israel and annexed to the Jewish state following the Six-Day War in 1967. The United Nations still recognizes the Golan Heights as part of Syria, not Israel.
"It's a historic day," said Israel's prime minister, standing next to U.S. ambassador David Friedman.
Netanyahu spoke of the name as a symbol of gratitude for Trump's decisions to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital and Golan as part of Israel.
The Golan Heights region was seized from Syria by Israel and annexed to the Jewish state following the Six-Day War in 1967. The United Nations still recognizes the Golan Heights as part of Syria, not Israel.
Dept. of Ed Hits Colleges for Hiding Foreign Cash; Georgetown, Texas A&M Got Hundreds Millions $
The U.S. Department of Education has launched an investigation into foreign cash secretly flowing into U.S. universities, the Daily Caller website reports today (June 16, 2019).
Almost all of the colleges contracted to shape U.S. textbooks on the Middle East received massive funding from countries in the region.
At the top of the list are Georgetown University and Texas A&M, which have taken hundreds of millions of dollars from the government of Qatar, a Middle Eastern nation with links to international terrorism.
Both universities received letters from the Department of Education on June 13 saying they should have disclosed that funding. The letters also warned that they could be referred to the U.S. attorney general to "compel compliance."
Almost all of the colleges contracted to shape U.S. textbooks on the Middle East received massive funding from countries in the region.
At the top of the list are Georgetown University and Texas A&M, which have taken hundreds of millions of dollars from the government of Qatar, a Middle Eastern nation with links to international terrorism.
Both universities received letters from the Department of Education on June 13 saying they should have disclosed that funding. The letters also warned that they could be referred to the U.S. attorney general to "compel compliance."
Saturday, June 15, 2019
Brooklyn Rabbi's House Is Lost in Arson Case; Blaze Occurred in Midwood Area of Brooklyn
The home of a Brooklyn rabbi erupted in fire early on June 13 in what investigators suspect was an arson attack, the Times of Israel website reports today (June 15, 2019).
Thirteen people were injured.
None of the injuries were life-threatening, although 12 people were sent to the hospital.
The blaze erupted in a car outside a home in the Midwood neighborhood and spread to three others, including that of Rabbi Jonathan Max.
Thirteen people were injured.
None of the injuries were life-threatening, although 12 people were sent to the hospital.
The blaze erupted in a car outside a home in the Midwood neighborhood and spread to three others, including that of Rabbi Jonathan Max.
Friday, June 14, 2019
Trump Calls Stephanopoulos "a Little Wise Guy;" ABC News Head Hinted Trump Obstructed Justice
President Donald Trump chastised ABC News' George Stephanopoulos today (June 14, 2019) for "being a little wise guy" when the ABC network's chief anchor and political analyst suggested Trump may have obstructed justice, according to the Daily Caller website.
Stephanopoulos asked the president why he refused to be interviewed in person by Mueller and chose instead to provide written answers to Mueller's questions.
"Because they were looking to get us for lies, for slight misstatements..." Trump responded.
"Not on obstruction," Stephanopoulos said.
"Look, George, you're being a little wise guy, which is typical for you," Trump said. "It's very simple. There was no crime. There was no collusion."
Stephanopoulos asked the president why he refused to be interviewed in person by Mueller and chose instead to provide written answers to Mueller's questions.
"Because they were looking to get us for lies, for slight misstatements..." Trump responded.
"Not on obstruction," Stephanopoulos said.
"Look, George, you're being a little wise guy, which is typical for you," Trump said. "It's very simple. There was no crime. There was no collusion."
Swiss Women Strike to End Gender Inequalities; Data Shows Women Earn 19.6% Less Than Men
Women across Switzerland went on strike today (June 14, 2019) to denounce slow progress on tackling the gender pay gap and inequalities, according to the Euro News website.
Data from the country's Federal Statistics Office shows that Swiss women earn 19.6 percent less than their male counterpart.
The International Labor Organization also found last month that Switzerland is near the bottom of the list when it comes to the wage gap between men and women in senior roles.
Only Italy, Kazakhstan, and Israel were deemed worse across Europe and Central Asia.
Data from the country's Federal Statistics Office shows that Swiss women earn 19.6 percent less than their male counterpart.
The International Labor Organization also found last month that Switzerland is near the bottom of the list when it comes to the wage gap between men and women in senior roles.
Only Italy, Kazakhstan, and Israel were deemed worse across Europe and Central Asia.
Thursday, June 13, 2019
Putin:US-Russia Relations Are Worse and Worse; Due Mainly to Dozens of US Sanctions on Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin said today (June 13, 2019) that relations between Moscow and Washington were getting worse and worse, the Reuters website reports.
Putin said U.S.-Russia ties were strained by everything from Syria to Ukraine.
He added, "The current administration has approved, in my opinion, several dozen decisions on sanctions against Russia in recent years."
The Russian leader contrasted Moscow's troubled relationship with Washington with what he described as its blossoming ties with China, a deepening strategic friendship that has alarmed some U.S. policymakers.
Putin said U.S.-Russia ties were strained by everything from Syria to Ukraine.
He added, "The current administration has approved, in my opinion, several dozen decisions on sanctions against Russia in recent years."
The Russian leader contrasted Moscow's troubled relationship with Washington with what he described as its blossoming ties with China, a deepening strategic friendship that has alarmed some U.S. policymakers.
Sanders to Leave Job as Press Sec. This Month; Trump:Very Special Person with Unique Talent
President Donald Trump announced today (June 13, 2019) that White House press secretary Sarah Sanders is leaving her position at the end of June, according to the Daily Caller website.
Sanders became the administration's deputy press secretary after Trump took office in 2017 and was later promoted to press secretary after Sean Spicer left the role.
"After years, our wonderful Sarah Huckabee Sanders will be leaving the White House at the end of the month and going home to the Great State of Arkansas," Trump wrote on Twitter. "She is a very special person with extraordinary talents,who has done an incredible job!"
Trump did not indicate what Sanders' next move will be, or if the White House has chosen a replacement.
Sanders became the administration's deputy press secretary after Trump took office in 2017 and was later promoted to press secretary after Sean Spicer left the role.
"After years, our wonderful Sarah Huckabee Sanders will be leaving the White House at the end of the month and going home to the Great State of Arkansas," Trump wrote on Twitter. "She is a very special person with extraordinary talents,who has done an incredible job!"
Trump did not indicate what Sanders' next move will be, or if the White House has chosen a replacement.
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
Ex-Stanford Coach Beats Jail in College Scam; Sentenced to $10K Fine for His Role in Scam
A former head sailing coach at Stanford University avoided prison time today (June 12, 2019), when a judge at the federal courthouse in Boston sentenced him for his role in a sweeping college admissions scam at elite U.S. universities, according to the AP website.
John Vandemoer is the first person to be sentenced in the case that exposed the lengths that some wealthy parents will go to get their children into the nation's top schools.
Vandemoer, who lost his job at Stanford as a result of the admissions scandal, admitted to agreeing to help students get into the prestigious university as recruited athletes in exchange for money for his sailing program.
U.S. District Judge Rya Zobel sentenced Vandemoer to pay a $10,000 fine and serve two years of supervised release, including six months of home confinement with electronic monitoring.
John Vandemoer is the first person to be sentenced in the case that exposed the lengths that some wealthy parents will go to get their children into the nation's top schools.
Vandemoer, who lost his job at Stanford as a result of the admissions scandal, admitted to agreeing to help students get into the prestigious university as recruited athletes in exchange for money for his sailing program.
U.S. District Judge Rya Zobel sentenced Vandemoer to pay a $10,000 fine and serve two years of supervised release, including six months of home confinement with electronic monitoring.
US Drug,Alcohol,Suicide Deaths at Record High; Study: Drug Overdoses Most Prevalent in W. Va.
According to research released today (June 12, 2019), Americans dying from drugs, alcohol, and suicide have reached a record high, the UPI website reports.
A study conducted by the Commonwealth Fund -- a healthcare advocacy group -- details the rise in overdoses and suicides in a "scorecard" that uses data from 2017.
Drug overdoses are most prevalent in West Virginia and Ohio, it said -- which saw 58 and 46 deaths per 100,000 residents , respectively.
"When we look at what's going on in mid-Atlantic states -- West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania -- those are the states that have the highest rates of drug overdose deaths in the country," David Radley, a senior scientist for the Commonwealth Fund, said.
A study conducted by the Commonwealth Fund -- a healthcare advocacy group -- details the rise in overdoses and suicides in a "scorecard" that uses data from 2017.
Drug overdoses are most prevalent in West Virginia and Ohio, it said -- which saw 58 and 46 deaths per 100,000 residents , respectively.
"When we look at what's going on in mid-Atlantic states -- West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania -- those are the states that have the highest rates of drug overdose deaths in the country," David Radley, a senior scientist for the Commonwealth Fund, said.
Tuesday, June 11, 2019
Thousands of IS Terrorists Live in Afghanistan; Moved from Mideast,Prepare to Strike Globally
The Islamic State (IS) terrorist group may have lost its caliphate in Syria and Iraq, but in the mountains of northeastern Afghanistan the group has grown dramatically and is again preparing to strike on a global scale, the CBN website reports today (June 11, 2019).
The Islamic State is transforming Afghanistan into a base for international terrorism, according to Ajmal Omar, Nangarhar provincial council member.
In March of this year, the Islamic State lost its final stronghold in Syria, bringing an end to the caliphate it declared in 2014.
Many believed the struggle against IS was finally near an end. But the terrorists simply moved east into the mountains of Afghanistan, where they have grown from a few dozen to several thousand.
The Islamic State is transforming Afghanistan into a base for international terrorism, according to Ajmal Omar, Nangarhar provincial council member.
In March of this year, the Islamic State lost its final stronghold in Syria, bringing an end to the caliphate it declared in 2014.
Many believed the struggle against IS was finally near an end. But the terrorists simply moved east into the mountains of Afghanistan, where they have grown from a few dozen to several thousand.
Cath.Church Releases Paper on Gender Concept; Criticizes Modern Concept of Gender as Secular
The Catholic Church has released a new paper questioning modern conceptions of gender identity, the Euro News website reports today (June 11, 2019).
"Male and Female He Created Them" is the title of the piece released by the Congregation for Catholic Education and signed by Cardinal Giuseppe Versaldi.
The release comes during Gay Pride month and has drawn fierce criticism from LGBTQ groups.
The 31-page document is not signed by Pope Francis himself, but quotes the Pontiff and scripture within its argument. It calls for dialogue but it notably criticizes the modern understanding of gender, saying it is "often founded on nothing more than a confused concept of freedom in the realm of feelings and wants."
"Male and Female He Created Them" is the title of the piece released by the Congregation for Catholic Education and signed by Cardinal Giuseppe Versaldi.
The release comes during Gay Pride month and has drawn fierce criticism from LGBTQ groups.
The 31-page document is not signed by Pope Francis himself, but quotes the Pontiff and scripture within its argument. It calls for dialogue but it notably criticizes the modern understanding of gender, saying it is "often founded on nothing more than a confused concept of freedom in the realm of feelings and wants."
Monday, June 10, 2019
Southern Baptist Report on Abuse Says SBC Lax; Fails to Protect Churchgoers in Hundreds of Cases
A new Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) report on sex abuse acknowledges numerous ways the denomination has failed to protect members of its churches, the Religion News website reports today (June 10, 2019).
The "Caring Well" report also summarizes a range of next steps to address the issue, including educating congregations about abuse, preparing them to help survivors, and fostering abuse prevention.
"It should now be obvious that the problem has been and still is more widespread than anyone has realized," the SBC report said, "affecting our congregations all over the country, from the smallest church pastored by a bivocational minister to the megachurch with hundreds on staff."
The report -- to be presented during the Southern Baptists' annual meeting this week -- is the result of almost a year's work by a sexual abuse advisory group commissioned by SBC President J.D. Greear. It is based on an inquiry involving hundreds of sex abuse survivors, church leaders, and national experts.
The "Caring Well" report also summarizes a range of next steps to address the issue, including educating congregations about abuse, preparing them to help survivors, and fostering abuse prevention.
"It should now be obvious that the problem has been and still is more widespread than anyone has realized," the SBC report said, "affecting our congregations all over the country, from the smallest church pastored by a bivocational minister to the megachurch with hundreds on staff."
The report -- to be presented during the Southern Baptists' annual meeting this week -- is the result of almost a year's work by a sexual abuse advisory group commissioned by SBC President J.D. Greear. It is based on an inquiry involving hundreds of sex abuse survivors, church leaders, and national experts.
Ex-Boston Red Sox Slugger David Ortiz Is Shot; Hit by a Motorcyclist in the Dominican Republic
Former Boston Red Sox star David Ortiz was shot yesterday in the Dominican Republic, the UPI website reports today (June 10, 2019).
Ortiz, 43, was shot in the back by a motorcyclist at the club Dial Discotheque in Santo Domingo, Dominican National Police spokesman Felix Duran Mejia said.
"The bullet went through his stomach," he added, saying that Ortiz's condition was "confidential."
Ortiz -- nicknamed "Big Papi" -- retired from Major League Baseball in 2016, after playing for 20 years. He won three World Series championships, won the AL Silver Slugger title seven times, and was named the World Series MVP in 2013.
Ortiz, 43, was shot in the back by a motorcyclist at the club Dial Discotheque in Santo Domingo, Dominican National Police spokesman Felix Duran Mejia said.
"The bullet went through his stomach," he added, saying that Ortiz's condition was "confidential."
Ortiz -- nicknamed "Big Papi" -- retired from Major League Baseball in 2016, after playing for 20 years. He won three World Series championships, won the AL Silver Slugger title seven times, and was named the World Series MVP in 2013.
Sunday, June 9, 2019
Pope Francis Praises Gifts of Holy Spirit at Mass; Says Holy Spirit Gives Christians Life, Harmony
Pope Francis said today (June 9, 2019) that without the gifts of the Holy Spirit, Christians lack that which animates them and gives them internal life and harmony, according to the National Catholic Register website.
"Without the Spirit, our Christian life unravels, lacking the love that brings everything together," Francis said at Mass in St. Peter's Square today.
At Mass for Pentecost, the pope spoke about the Holy Spirit, which he said is "far from being an abstract reality," but is the "most concrete and close, the one who changes our lives."
"The Spirit is peace in the midst of restlessness, confidence in the midst of discouragement, joy in sadness, youth in aging, courage in the hour of trial," the pope asserted.
"Without the Spirit, our Christian life unravels, lacking the love that brings everything together," Francis said at Mass in St. Peter's Square today.
At Mass for Pentecost, the pope spoke about the Holy Spirit, which he said is "far from being an abstract reality," but is the "most concrete and close, the one who changes our lives."
"The Spirit is peace in the midst of restlessness, confidence in the midst of discouragement, joy in sadness, youth in aging, courage in the hour of trial," the pope asserted.
Saturday, June 8, 2019
Over 10K in Jerusalem's Annual Pride Parade; Some 49 Arrested for Disturbing Event,Parade
Chanting for equality and holding brightly painted signs supporting LGBT rights, some 10,000-15,000 people marched in Jerusalem's annual pride parade on the evening of June 6, with over 2,000 police securing the highly charged event four years after a deadly attack on participants, according to the Times of Israel website.
Police said 49 people were arrested, including one carrying a knife.
The detainees were suspected of "intending to disturb the event and parade," a police statement said.
The parade came hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed Likud lawmaker Amir Ohana as justice minister, making him the first openly gay cabinet member in Israel's history.
Police said 49 people were arrested, including one carrying a knife.
The detainees were suspected of "intending to disturb the event and parade," a police statement said.
The parade came hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed Likud lawmaker Amir Ohana as justice minister, making him the first openly gay cabinet member in Israel's history.
Friday, June 7, 2019
Trump Ends Plans to Impose Tariffs on Mexico; Says Mexico to Take Measures to Stop Migrants
President Donald Trump said today (June 7, 2019) he has suspended plans to impose tariffs on Mexico, tweeting that the country "has agreed to take strong measures" to stem the flow of Central American migrants into the U.S., according to the AOL website.
"I am pleased to inform you that the U.S. has reached a signed agreement with Mexico," Trump tweeted tonight.
He added, "Tariffs scheduled to be implemented by the U.S. on Monday [June 10] against Mexico, are hereby indefinitely suspended."
He also said Mexico's steps would "greatly reduce or eliminate, illegal immigration coming from Mexico and into the United States."
"I am pleased to inform you that the U.S. has reached a signed agreement with Mexico," Trump tweeted tonight.
He added, "Tariffs scheduled to be implemented by the U.S. on Monday [June 10] against Mexico, are hereby indefinitely suspended."
He also said Mexico's steps would "greatly reduce or eliminate, illegal immigration coming from Mexico and into the United States."
Trump Bans Fetal Tissue Use by Govt. Workers; Decision Viewed as a Major Victory to Pro-Lifers
The Trump administration has banned government scientists from conducting fetal tissue research, handing pro-lifers a major victory, the Christian Headlines website reports today (June 7, 2019).
"Promoting the dignity of human life from conception to natural death is one of the very top priorities of President Trump's administration," a Health and Human Services statement read.
The department said it was discontinuing fetal tissue research among scientists within the National Institutes of Health.
It added that any future research "that requires new acquisition of fetal tissue from elective abortions will not be conducted."
"Promoting the dignity of human life from conception to natural death is one of the very top priorities of President Trump's administration," a Health and Human Services statement read.
The department said it was discontinuing fetal tissue research among scientists within the National Institutes of Health.
It added that any future research "that requires new acquisition of fetal tissue from elective abortions will not be conducted."
Thursday, June 6, 2019
Cal. Lawmakers Seek Priests' Confession Info; Force Priests to Inform Authorities of Abuse;
Breaking with a long tradition of clerical privilege, California is edging toward requiring priests and other church employees to inform authorities if they learn of a case of child sex abuse during the sacrament of confession, ther Religion News website reports today (June 6, 2019).
On May 31, the California Senate passed a bill requiring priests to report child abuse if they learn about it while hearing a confession.
Catholic leaders see the bill as forcing priests and other clergy either to comply with the law and violate the sacramental seal of confession or defy authorities and risk arrest.
The California Catholic Conference decried the bill in a statement, describing it as an "attack on the sanctity of the confessional" and noting that under church law, any priest who violates the seal of confession is automatically excommunicated.
On May 31, the California Senate passed a bill requiring priests to report child abuse if they learn about it while hearing a confession.
Catholic leaders see the bill as forcing priests and other clergy either to comply with the law and violate the sacramental seal of confession or defy authorities and risk arrest.
The California Catholic Conference decried the bill in a statement, describing it as an "attack on the sanctity of the confessional" and noting that under church law, any priest who violates the seal of confession is automatically excommunicated.
One Cadet Dead, 20 Hurt in West Point Accident; Armored Personnel Carrier Turns Over in Training
An armored personnel carrier used by cadets at West Point overturned during a training accident early today (June 6, 2019), near the U.S. Military Academy in New York, killing one and injuring 20 others, according to the Daily Beast website.
Two soldiers were also wounded, the military academy said.
Local first responders and Army officials were on the scene providing medical treatment after the crash occurred at 6:45 a.m. near the Camp Natural Bridge training site.
Military police said that the nature of the accident was an "ongoing investigation."
Two soldiers were also wounded, the military academy said.
Local first responders and Army officials were on the scene providing medical treatment after the crash occurred at 6:45 a.m. near the Camp Natural Bridge training site.
Military police said that the nature of the accident was an "ongoing investigation."
Wednesday, June 5, 2019
De Blasio:Anti-Semitism Is Right-Wing Activity; Attacks on Jews in NYC Spiked 90% in Past Year
Democratic New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio claimed that anti-Semitism is a product of a "right-wing movement," as anti-Semitic hate crimes surge in the city, the Daily Caller website reports today (June 5, 2019).
"I think the ideological movement that is anti-Semitic is the right-wing movement," de Blasio said at a press conference this week.
Attacks on Jews in New York City have increased by roughly 90 percent in the past year.
The New York Police Department has arrested 75 people in connection with the hate crimes.
"I think the ideological movement that is anti-Semitic is the right-wing movement," de Blasio said at a press conference this week.
Attacks on Jews in New York City have increased by roughly 90 percent in the past year.
The New York Police Department has arrested 75 people in connection with the hate crimes.
Queen Elizabeth,Allied Heads Hold D-Day Anniv.; It Was Largest Land, Sea, Air Invasion in History
President Donald Trump joined Queen Elizabeth II and leaders of other allied nations today (June 5, 2019) at Britain's Portsmouth Naval Base -- the launch site of the largest land, sea, and air invasion in history -- to commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day, according to the UPI website.
In her final week as British prime minister, Theresa May hosted the leaders of 15 countries, including French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
The leaders issued a statement pledging to make sure the "unimaginable horror" of World War II doesn't happen again.
British Spitfires and other aircraft flew over the event. A Royal Navy ship fired a salute. Stories were retold of some 5,000 ships, 11,000 airplanes, and 150,000 soldiers that departed Portsmouth for the northern coast of France. The invasion forces gathered in Normandy and served a key role in defeating Nazi Germany during World War II.
In her final week as British prime minister, Theresa May hosted the leaders of 15 countries, including French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
The leaders issued a statement pledging to make sure the "unimaginable horror" of World War II doesn't happen again.
British Spitfires and other aircraft flew over the event. A Royal Navy ship fired a salute. Stories were retold of some 5,000 ships, 11,000 airplanes, and 150,000 soldiers that departed Portsmouth for the northern coast of France. The invasion forces gathered in Normandy and served a key role in defeating Nazi Germany during World War II.
Tuesday, June 4, 2019
Pope Officially Makes Change to Lord's Prayer; Asserts God Does Not Lead Us into Temptation
Pope Francis has officially approved a change to the Lord's Prayer in Matthew 6:13 that replaces "lead us not into temptation" with "do not let us fall into temptation," the CBN website reports today (June 4, 2019).
The Vatican enacted the change on May 22.
The pope believes the new version is better because the first translation implies that God leads people into temptation, an action that is against His nature as a good and holy God.
"A father doesn't do that, a father helps you to get up immediately," Francis said on the line in question. "It's Satan who leads us into temptation, that's his department."
The Vatican enacted the change on May 22.
The pope believes the new version is better because the first translation implies that God leads people into temptation, an action that is against His nature as a good and holy God.
"A father doesn't do that, a father helps you to get up immediately," Francis said on the line in question. "It's Satan who leads us into temptation, that's his department."
Conservatives Declare Pope Francis Is a Heretic; Say Francis Caused Worst Crises in Cath.Church
A group of Roman Catholic priests, academics, and intellectuals have issued an open letter to bishops asking them to declare Pope Francis a heretic, the Euro News website reports today (June 4, 2019).
"We take this measure as a last resort to respond to the accumulating harm caused by Pope Francis's words and actions over several years, which have given rise to one of the worst crises in the history of the Catholic Church," the 20-page letter reads.
The most prominent of the 19 signatures of the scathing letter is Father Aidan Nichols, a 70-year-old British priest of the Dominican order.
A Vatican spokesman had no comment on the letter, which includes dozens of footnotes, Bible verses, and articles of canon law and a separate bibliography.
Monday, June 3, 2019
Some 40K US Prisoners Switch to Islam Each Yr.; Due to Psychological, Welcoming Aspects of Islam
An estimated 40,000 inmates in U.S. prisons are converting to Islam every year, the Clarion Project website reports today (June 3, 2019).
There are many examples where conversion to Islam in prison was part of a radicalization process.
Yet, in the U.S., inmates who convert to Islam have lower recidivism rates than average.
There are three main reasons why so many in prison convert to Islam. The first stems from the psychology of prison and the need to belong. The second is the welcoming aspect of Islam. The third is the pathway Islam offers to rehabilitation.
There are many examples where conversion to Islam in prison was part of a radicalization process.
Yet, in the U.S., inmates who convert to Islam have lower recidivism rates than average.
There are three main reasons why so many in prison convert to Islam. The first stems from the psychology of prison and the need to belong. The second is the welcoming aspect of Islam. The third is the pathway Islam offers to rehabilitation.
Sunday, June 2, 2019
Pope in Romania Warns of Division Via Ideology; Communists Moved Catholics to Orthodox Church
Pope Francis warned of ideological attempts to sow fear or division in society today (June 2, 2019), as he paid tribute to Christians in Romania killed or persecuted under communism, according to the Euro News website.
After World War II, Romanian authorities confiscated property from the Eastern Rite Catholic Church and forced its members to join the larger Orthodox Church.
In his homily today, Francis paid tribute to an estimated half-million Romanians jailed in the 1950s and 1960s including politicians, priests, and doctors.
Many Catholic properties taken by the communist dictatorship or given by the government to the Orthodox Church have yet to be returned 30 years after the fall of communism.
After World War II, Romanian authorities confiscated property from the Eastern Rite Catholic Church and forced its members to join the larger Orthodox Church.
In his homily today, Francis paid tribute to an estimated half-million Romanians jailed in the 1950s and 1960s including politicians, priests, and doctors.
Many Catholic properties taken by the communist dictatorship or given by the government to the Orthodox Church have yet to be returned 30 years after the fall of communism.
Saturday, June 1, 2019
Trump Imposes Escalating Tariffs on Mexico; Until Mexico Ends Illegal Migrant Surge to US
President Trump on May 30 announced a new 5 percent tariff on Mexico beginning in early June, saying the levy will "gradually increase" until the ongoing illegal immigration surge at the southern border is "remedied" and illegal migrants "stop," the Worthy News website reports today (June 1, 2019).
"On June 10, the U.S. will impose a 5 percent tariff on all goods coming into our country from Mexico, until such times as illegal migrants coming through Mexico, and into our country, stop," Trump wrote.
"The tariff will gradually increase until the illegal immigration problem is remedied, at which time the tariffs will be removed."
The tariff on all goods by land, sea, and air from Mexico is expected to increase to 10 percent on July 1 -- and potentially increase substantially from there.
"On June 10, the U.S. will impose a 5 percent tariff on all goods coming into our country from Mexico, until such times as illegal migrants coming through Mexico, and into our country, stop," Trump wrote.
"The tariff will gradually increase until the illegal immigration problem is remedied, at which time the tariffs will be removed."
The tariff on all goods by land, sea, and air from Mexico is expected to increase to 10 percent on July 1 -- and potentially increase substantially from there.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
