What Adam Curry is reading

Marijuana stays on DEA's list of "really bad" drugs | Michigan Radio
  Link to Article
  Thu, 30 Aug 2012 03:20
  Last Friday, the Drug Enforcement Administration rejected a petition that sought to reclassify marijuana. The petition came from the Coalition for Rescheduling Cannabis and had been in front of the DEA for nine years.
  From Occupational Health and Safety Magazine:
  The Drug Enforcement Administration has rejected a nine-year-old petition seeking to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, holding that it meets the three criteria for placing a substance in Schedule I under 21 U.S.C. 812(b)(1):
  Marijuana has a high potential for abuse,Marijuana has no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, andThere is a lack of accepted safety for use of marijuana under medical supervision.There are five categories for drugs under the Controlled Substances Act.U.S. Code states that Class I drugs are categorized as the most dangerous because:
  The drug or other substance has a high potential for abuse.The drug or other substance has no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States.There is a lack of accepted safety for use of the drug or other substance under medical supervision. Class V drugs are listed because:
  The drug or other substance has a low potential for abuse relative to the drugs or other substances in schedule IV.The drug or other substance has a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States.Abuse of the drug or other substance may lead to limited physical dependence or psychological dependence relative to the drugs or other substances in schedule IV.The government has a long, detailed response as to why they think marijuana should continue to be classified as a Class I drug.
  From Talking Points Memo:
  In a letter from DEA Administrator Michele M. Leonhart, the agency said that based on the recommendation of the Department of Health and Human Services they were denying the request because marijuana a has "a high potential for abuse, has no accepted medical use in the United States, and lacks an acceptable level of safety for use even under medical supervision."
  "There is evidence that individuals are taking the substance in amounts sufficient to create a hazard to their health or to the safety of other individuals or to the community," the government argued in the report.
Pamela Geller '-- on The Jamie Glazov Show
  Link to Article
  Source: FrontPage Magazine
  Thu, 30 Aug 2012 03:09
  Jamie Glazov is Frontpage Magazine's editor. He holds a Ph.D. in History with a specialty in Russian, U.S. and Canadian foreign policy. He is the author of the critically acclaimed and best-selling, United in Hate: The Left's Romance with Tyranny and Terror. His new book is Showdown With Evil. He can be reached at jamieglazov11@gmail.com.
Video: Will.i.am song 'Reach for the Stars' to be played on Mars - Telegraph
  Link to Article
  Thu, 30 Aug 2012 02:58
  The singer announced on his Twitter feed that his new song 'Reach for the Stars' will be played by Nasa's Curiosity rover, which landed on Mars earlier this month.
  The song will be played at 7pm BST this evening and will be streamed live from Nasa's website and broadcast on Nasa TV.
  Will.i.am has worked in the past with Nasa on his i.am.angel Foundation which develops science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics intiatives.
Cause of Destruction of Venezuelan Refinery Today - Under Investigation (updates) | Critical Analysis |Axisoflogic.com
  Link to Article
  Thu, 30 Aug 2012 02:54
  By Arturo Rosales and Les Blough in Venezuela. Axis of Logic
  Updates highlighted in bold
  style="font-size: 10pt" >A massive explosion at Venezuela's main oil refinery at the Amuay plant in Falcon State occurred at 1:11 a.m. this morning (Saturday, August 25).
  The Dead and Injured
  According to Vice President El­as Jaua, at least 24 people were killed, 17 of them members of the Venezuelan National Guard who provide security for the refinery and 60 were injured with 5 remaining hospitalized. Many homes in the area were evacuated and med-vac ambulances were used to take the injured to hospitals.
  Update: The death toll has increased to 41 people. These included 18 National Guardsmen who were among those protecting the refinery; 17 civilians and six bodies have not yet been identified.
  The Material Damage
  Two refinery tanks were destroyed with significant damage to the infrastructure and houses in the area and the National Guard base in front of the refinery was completely destroyed. The refinery is one of the biggest in the world, producing 645,000 barrels of crude and 200,000 barrels of gasoline a day. Amuay, on the Paraguana Peninsula, is part of the Paraguana Refinery Complex, which also includes the adjacent Cardon. The entire complex has capacity to produce 956,000 bpd.
  Energy Minister Rafael Ramirez said there are sufficient petroleum reserves in the country to continue the normal flow of exports and meet domestic demands even after the destruction that took place early this morning. Ramirez stated that all operations at the plant had stopped but he expected them to resume within two days.
  Update: Rafael Ram­rez, Venezuela's Energy Minister stated that nine crude-oil-storage tanks had been destroyed.
  Cause of the Blasts
  Energy Minister Rafael Ramirez reported on state television that a gas leak, which formed a cloud exploded, "igniting at least two storage tanks and other facilities at the refinery."
  US Marine entered Venezuela illegally 2 weeks ago: Two weeks ago (August 10) we reported that the Venezuelan government captured a U.S. Marine entering the country from Colombia illegally, with "the look of a mercenary." He told the government that he "was fleeing from someone," but would not answer any questions asked during interrogation. He had stamps in his passport from visits to Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya and attempted to destroy his notebook when he was captured. But his notebook was reconstructed and found to contain "geographical coordinates." The Marine is still in Venezuelan custody and initially, the government reported that he was refusing to explain his reasons for entering the country illegally. President Chvez stated, "This [US] citizen wanted to enter the country illegally, for who knows what reason. He cannot say where he was going, or who was waiting for him." Since then, the government has not issued any additional reports.
  At the time of the US Marine's arrest, President Chvez issued an alert to all Venezuelans related to possible sabotage of the presidential elections this year:
  "A group of the bourgeoisie is preparing to reject the people's triumph, that's very clear. [They] are going to try to plunge the country into a political crisis and fill the country with violence. I urge everybody to be very alert."
  Corporate Media Reporting: The BBC, Guardian, NYT, LAT, WP, Reuters, AP and other imperialist media jumped the gun and immediately blamed the Venezuelan government for this ''accident.'' They quote ex-employees of PDVSA who are telling them that the explosion is the result of poor maintenance of equipment and sub-standard safety measures by the government. One of them said the explosion is due to the oil minister working on President Chvez' re-election campaign this year instead of taking care of his responsibilities as oil minister. 18,000 of these employees were fired when they sabotaged and shut down PDVSA in 2002-2003. The imperialist media does not mention any of this, calling them "ex employees" or "retired employees" in their propaganda.
  The BBC jumped on this story immediately, attributing the explosion to faulty government management before any investigation has been carried out:
  "Analysts say refineries in Venezuela, South America's biggest oil producer, have suffered from a long list of problems including power failures and accidents."
  The Guardian did the same with:
  ''Power faults, accidents and planned stoppages for maintenance have hit deliveries from South America's biggest oil exporter.
  ''Eddie Ramirez, national co-ordinator for Gente del Petr"leo, an organisation of ex-employees of PDVSA, said: "These accidents have been happening more and more frequently in the last couple years because of a neglect in safety and maintenance standards.
  "Minister Ramirez dedicates his time to doing politics alongside the candidate, Hugo Chvez, instead of maintaining the level of infrastructure this kind of industry requires."
  Gente del Petr"leo has been attacking the Chvez government ever since the coup of 2002. They are comprised of many of the 18,000 PDVSA employees who were fired by the government after they sabotaged the Venezuelan oil industry, then abandoned their posts shutting down all oil production for 3 months and crippling the economy in 2003. On April 13, 2002, Eddie Ramirez, sought out and quoted by the Guardian for this story, sat with old PDVSA managers and defiantly cried in public while President Chvez was being held hostage, "Not one more barrel of oil for Cuba!''
  The New York Times follows suit with:
  ''Pdvsa has been plagued by accidents and oil spills in recent years, which critics say are the result of poor management...
  ''Jos(C) Bodas, an oil union leader, said that the company had failed to invest in maintenance.
  '' 'This has as a consequence the increase in accidents and tragic deaths like what we are seeing today,' Mr. Bodas said in a telephone call to Globovision, a television channel associated with the political opposition to President Hugo Chvez.''
  Rafael Ram­rez, Venezuela's Oil Minister said PDVSA is investigating the cause of the gas leak that led to the explosion.
  Analysis
  So far, the government is only reporting the explosion as the ignition of a gas leak but the investigation of the cause is underway. With President Chvez holding a double-digit lead over his hapless political rival, Capriles Radonski, the CIA-backed opposition has no hope of winning in this 2012 presidential election. President Chvez will hold the office for the next 6 years, a disaster for Washington's plans in South America.
  The government has not suggested that the Amuay plant was sabotaged yesterday but you can bet it's on their minds. It is not lost on these reporters that prior to the capture of the US Marine, a meeting took place at US embassy in Caracas regarding the impending October 7 political victory of President Chvez. The following comment was leaked from the embassy:
  "Don't worry, there's going to be an unforeseen event which will change all this[Chvez's impending victory as predicted by all main pollsters]."
  Since then the opposition also organized a number of protests in key industries. Last week, a few steel workers walked on stage drowning out President Chvez' campaign speech at Sidor, Venezuela's main steel plant in Bolivar State, a Chvez stronghold. They got on stage on the pretext that they wanted to support President Chvez. Venezuela's two basic industries have been targeted by the CIA-backed opposition, steel and oil. These events were preceded by an outbreak of violence in Yare prison one week ago with 24 prisoners killed in rival gang violence as a result of drugs and weapons that were smuggled into the prison.
  Consider the history of sabotage in foreign countries by the CIA, their methods currently being used to destabilize and later attack countries in the Middle East and Asia and more specifically:
  the capture of the US Marine illegally sneaking into Venezuela from Colombia with geographical coordinates of the country; the infamous April 2002 Washington-backed, failed coup in Venezuela; the sabotage of Venezuela's nationalized oil industry in 2002-2003, shutting down all oil production intended to destroy the economy;the assassination of Danilo Anderson, chief investigator of the 2002 coup leaders, with bomb planted in his Jeep outside his home in November, 2004;a number of assassinations of trade union leaders by Colombian death squads inside Venezuela;repeated violations of Venezuelan air space; the US 4th fleet reactivated and moved into position off the Venezuelan coast; seven new US military bases moved into Colombia in 2009; the Honduran coup that overthrew leftist President Zalaya in July, 2009 and the one against Paraguayan President Ferdinand Lugo earlier this year;Venezuela's organization of South American states against US imperialism;President Chvez' 3rd election victory as president, a fait accompli, only 6 weeks away. At this vital stage before the Presidential elections the opposition will try to make political capital out of this tragedy '' without any evidence that there was negligence '' and as usual their unfounded opinions are given creedence and spread afar by the international corporate media. By the same token it could just have easily been sabotage mainly due to the sensitive political timing of the explosion, preceded by the protest by some infiltrated workers in Bolivar state against Chvez himself which was preceded by the deadly Yare prison riot.
  Coincidences?
  Draw your own conclusions but the investigation into the explosion will be key in these circumstances.
  Read biographies and additional reports and analyses by Axis of Logic Columnist Arturo Rosales and editor, Les Blough. Both men live in Venezuela.
Natural Gas price hikes are ready. Government to buy CNG cars to use Natural Gas.
  Link to Article
  Source: usfollowme
  Thu, 30 Aug 2012 02:50
  http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2012/08/states-to-carmakers-cng-cng-cng-cng/
Mexican police attacked CIA officers, ambush likely: sources
  Link to Article
  Source: Reuters: World News
  Thu, 30 Aug 2012 02:48
  By Ioan Grillo
  TRES MARIAS, Mexico | Wed Aug 29, 2012 9:54pm EDT
  TRES MARIAS, Mexico (Reuters) - Mexican federal police shot and wounded two CIA operatives last week, security sources said, in an apparently deliberate attack that could hurt U.S.-Mexico cooperation in their war against drug cartels.
  The two experienced officers were just south of the capital on their way to a Mexican Marine base on Friday, working with local authorities on a training mission, when federal police riddled their armored van bearing diplomatic plates with bullets.
  The men, traveling with a Mexican Marine captain, were wounded and taken to a hospital for treatment, though their injuries were not life-threatening. Their vehicle's tires and rear windshield were shot out.
  A dozen federal police officers detained and questioned over the attack have been ordered held in custody for 40 days. In initial statements to federal prosecutors, they claimed they confused the Americans for criminals.
  However, witnesses who saw the shooting at a bend in the road outside the small town of Tres Marias told Reuters the gunmen were dressed in plain clothes and pursued the Americans firing from unmarked cars and on foot -- a classic style of gangland hits in Mexico.
  "We had no idea at all they were police. They looked like criminals," said one woman who witnessed the incident but asked not to be named for fear of repercussions.
  A Mexican government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the evidence suggested gang members and corrupt police had carried out the attack before other police arrived at the scene and prevented the men being killed.
  "This was not an accident," the official said.
  Witnesses said the CIA driver made impressive evasive maneuvers which likely saved the lives of those inside the car, and they believe they heard hundreds of bullets fired, estimating the incident lasted around six minutes.
  The Mexican official said the vehicle was chased for about 4 km (2.5 miles) before it was halted, and that shell casings from AK-47s, which are not used by Mexican police and are a weapon of choice for drug cartel members, were found at the scene.
  A total of four vehicles were involved in the incident, though only the shot-up van was found at the scene, the official added. One of the vehicles identified by eyewitnesses has been linked to other crimes, the official said.
  Tres Marias is close to the city of Cuernavaca, a popular weekend retreat for Mexico City residents that has been badly hit by drug violence in recent years. In 2009, Mexican Marines shot dead leading cartel boss Arturo Beltran Leyva, alias "The Beard," in Cuernavaca in an operation based on information from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
  His brother and fellow drug boss, Hector Beltran Leyva, is thought by some security experts to be at large nearby.
  The Mexican official said the rise in criminal activity in the area was very likely being abetted by corrupt police.
  "The police here have been heavily infiltrated by organized crime," said a local man, who declined to be identified.
  American and Mexican officials are still investigating the incident and Mexican Attorney General Marisela Morales said on Wednesday that an ambush was one possible explanation.
  U.S. officials in diplomatic vehicles went over the scene of the shooting on Wednesday, taking fresh evidence under the protection of Mexican Marines.
  A separate Mexican official close to the investigation who asked not to be identified said the CIA officers were within a few miles of the Marine base when they were shot at.
  The CIA declined to comment on the incident.
  One U.S. official familiar with inquiries into the incident said there are a "whole lot of unanswered questions" and that dealings between the United States and Mexico could be seriously affected if Washington concludes a major cover-up is going on.
  DELIBERATE AMBUSH?
  Mexico's police have been plagued by corruption and officers working for hire for cartels in recent years, amid a surge in violence that poses a major challenge for incoming President Enrique Pena Nieto, who is due to take office in December.
  Roadside shootings have been a feature of the violence that has overshadowed President Felipe Calderon's six years in office. Gangs have been known to set up fake military checkpoints to ambush rivals.
  Last year, two U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents were shot by hitmen on a major Mexican highway. One of the agents died.
  Calderon promised on Tuesday to get to the bottom of how the two CIA officers were shot. Speaking alongside the U.S. ambassador in Mexico, Calderon said the incident should not hinder bilateral efforts to fight Mexico's violent drug cartels.
  "We can't allow these things to happen, whether it is because of negligence, lack of training, lack of trust or complicity," Calderon said.
  The CIA, FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration have officers operating out of the U.S. embassy in Mexico City.
  Under the "Merida Initiative" which began in 2008, U.S. operatives have trained Mexican police and soldiers to help them fight the cartels. Washington has also supplied equipment including Black Hawk helicopters and surveillance gear.
  Much of the training and hardware has gone to the Marines, an elite force inside Mexico's Navy Ministry that has captured or killed several major drug traffickers. However, the United States has also trained the federal police.
  During Calderon's six-year offensive against cartels, there have been more than 55,000 drug-related murders. More than 3,000 police and soldiers have died, although many were involved with the gangs.
  (With reporting by Mark Hosenball in Washington and Dave Graham in Mexico City; Writing by Simon Gardner; Editing by Kieran Murray and Cynthia Osterman)
US government has override for your car.
  Link to Article
  Source: usfollowme
  Thu, 30 Aug 2012 02:46
  http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2012/08/computer-crashes-car-crashes-people-die/
Oil Wars: China / Japan Senkaku Dispute
  Link to Article
  Source: Uploads by ARSONomics
  Thu, 30 Aug 2012 02:45
Wolf Blitzer: Racist Attack On CNN Camerawoman At Republican National Convention Was 'Truly Shocking' (VIDEO)
  Link to Article
  Thu, 30 Aug 2012 02:08
  John Thune South Dakota Senator John Thune gestures to the delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  Rob PortmanOhio Senator Rob Portman waves to the delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Ohio Senator Rob Portman waves to delegates before his speech during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
  Arizona Senator John McCain, left, shakes hands with former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  John Thune South Dakota Senator John Thune waves to the delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  John McCainArizona Senator John McCain gestures as he walks up to the podium during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  John McCainSen. John McCain, R-Ariz., waves after addressing the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  John McCainSen. John McCain, R-Ariz., smiles before addressing the during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Washington Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers speaks to delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Rand PaulSen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  Kentucky Senator Rand Paul addresses delegates at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Mitch McConnell Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky addresses to the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  Mitch McConnellSenate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky waves to delegates after addressing the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  A video honoring of Rep. Ron Paul, R-Texas, is displayed during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Cindy McCain, wife of Arizona Senator John McCain, waits for the start of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Ishwar SinghIshwar Singh delivers the invocation during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Ayla BrownAyla Brown signs the National Anthem during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Paul Ryan, Janna RyanRepublican vice presidential candidate, Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., and wife Janna appear on stage at the Wisconsin delegation's Beers and Brats event, Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)
  Paul RyanRepublican vice presidential nominee, Rep. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin checks out the TelePrompTer during this podium sound check during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  John McCainSen. John McCain clowns around on the podium during sound check the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
  Former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani is interviewed on the convention floor before the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
  Paul RyanRepublican vice presidential candidate, Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis. gestures during a walk through ahead of his delivering a speech at the Republican National Convention, Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  Paul Ryan, Sam Ryan, Liza Ryan, Charlie RyanCAPTION CORRECTION, CORRECTS ORDER OF CHILDREN'S NAMES TO SAM, LIZA AND CHARLIE, NOT CHARLIE, LIZA AND SAM - Republican vice presidential candidate, Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., smiles at his children, from left, Sam, Liza, and Charlie, during a walk through ahead of his delivering a speech at the Republican National Convention, Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)
  John McCainA reporter, left, tries to interview Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., as he walks the floor of the Republican National Convention, Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)
  Catherine Akin, of Jasper, Fla., a demonstrators participate in a protest rally in the rain, Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. Protestors gathered in Tampa to march in demonstration against the Republican National Convention. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
  A worker walks down the isle to collect trash on the floor at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/David Goldman)
  Marco RubioSen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., picks up the gavel after a sound check on the main stage at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice looks over the main stage during a sound check at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Tim PawlentyFormer Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty looks over the main stage during a sound check at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Police officers watch demonstrators marching through the streets of Tampa, Fla., to protest the Republican National Convention on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012. Here's what tens of thousands of visitors in Tampa during the Republican National Convention will see this week: police. Lots of them. They're seemingly on every street corner. Officers riding bicycles, horses and golf carts that look like baby Humvees. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
  Police officers patrol, Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. Here's what tens of thousands of visitors in Tampa during the Republican National Convention will see this week: police. Lots of them. They're seemingly on every street corner. Officers riding bicycles, horses and golf carts that look like baby Humvees. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
  Condoleezza RiceFormer Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice sits down for a television interview on the floor of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2012. (AP Photo/David Goldman)
  New Jersey Governor Chris Christie addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla. on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Chris ChristieNew Jersey Governor Chris Christie addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla. on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  New Jersey Governor Chris Christie addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Ann RomneyAnn Romney, wife of U.S. Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney, reacts as he walks up to the podium to address the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  Mitt Romney, Ann RomneyU.S. Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney hugs his wife Ann after she addressed the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Mitt Romney, Ann RomneyAnn Romney is kissed by her husband Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla. on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applwhite)
  Ann RomneyAnn Romney, wife of U.S. Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla. on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Ann RomneyAnn Romney, wife of Republican presidential candidate, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney arrives on stage to deliver a speech at the Republican National Convention on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
  Ted CruzSenate candidate Ted Cruz, of Texas, addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Ted CruzSenate candidate Ted Cruz of Texas addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Nikki HaleySouth Carolina Governor Nikki Haley addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Nikki HaleySouth Carolina Governor Nikki Haley addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Artur DavisFormer Representative Artur Davis addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Artur DavisFormer Representative Artur Davis addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Rick SantorumFormer Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum speaks to delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  ProtesterA protester yells out while Former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum speaks during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  ProtesterA protester is led away while Former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum speaks during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum introduces his wife Karen during his speech during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Scott WalkerWisconsin Gov. Scott Walker waves to delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Scott WalkerWisconsin Gov. Scott Walker addresses Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Brian SandovalNevada Gov. Brian Sandoval addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Texas Governor Rick Perry poses with delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Phil ArchulettaSmall business owner Phil Archuletta addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Kyle Welch, Lillian WelchKyle Welch from Cambridge, Mass., cheer as his 1-year-old daughter Lillian sleeps during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
  Bob McDonnellVirginia Governor Bob McDonnell addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell addresses delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Bev GraySmall business owner Bev Gray addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin waves to candidates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin speaks to delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Cathy McMorris RodgersRepresentative Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash., addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Kelly AyotteSen. Kelly Ayotte, R-N.H., waves to the delegates before addressing the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich arrives at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Small business owner Jack Gilchrist speaks to delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  John KasichOhio Governor John Kasich addresses the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Mia LoveMayor of Saratoga Springs, Utah, Mia Love waves to candidates following her speech during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
  Mia LoveMayor of Saratoga Springs, Utah, Mia Love speaks to delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Actress Janine Turner speaks to delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Jan BrewerArizona Gov. Jan Brewer arrives on the floor at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  Scott WalkerWisconsin Gov. Scott Walker reacts as he casts his states votes for former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Delegates gather in the Tampa Bay Times Forum during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
  Scott WalkerWisconsin Gov. Scott Walker talks to delegates on the floor at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  Scott RomneyScott Romney, right, brother of U.S. Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, reacts at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  John KasichOhio Gov. John Kasich speaks at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  Michele BachmannMinnesota Representative Michele Bachmann, second right, listens as Minnesota delegates casts their vote during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Delegates from Kentucky casts their votes for presidential candidate Mitt Romney during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
  Scott Romney, Rick Snyder. Michigan delegate Scott Romney, center with a note pad, and the rest of Michigan delegates react at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. At right is Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  House Speaker John Boehner of Ohio, taps a gavel during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Fredi SimpsonWashington state delegate Fredi Simpson cheer during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/David Goldman)
  John SununuCommittee on Rules Chairman John Sununu addresses delegates during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
  Don GenhartCalifornia delegate Don Genhart fashions his cowboy boots at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
  Sol Grosskopf Wisconsin delegate Sol Grosskopf from Shawano wearing cheesehead talks on the phone during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  A delegate from Texas holds up an anti-Obama sign during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Bryan DaughertyWith Ron Paul's autograph on his hat, Maine delegate Bryan Daugherty from Bangor looks at his smart phone at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/David Goldman)
  Mick CornettOklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett waves to the Oklahoma delegation during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Bill HaslamTennessee Gov. Bill Haslam, center, talks to delegates on the floor at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/David Goldman)
  North Carolina delegates cheer during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
  Bob FishDelegate Bob Fish from Parkersburg, W. Va., pledges at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  A volunteer places pamphlets on chairs in Montana's delegation seating area before the start of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
  Tim Babcock, Tom HoganFormer Montana Gov. Tim Babcock, left, Tom Hogan (FL) lead the Pledge of Allegiance during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)<em><strong>CORRECTION</strong>: A former version of this caption misstated Hogan's title.</em>
  Texas delegates recite the Pledge of Allegiance during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Reice PreibusChairman of the Rebpulican National Convention Reice Preibus gavels the second session of the Republican National Convention to order in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Bruce ThompsonBruce Thompson of San Diego, Calif. fashions his hat at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
  Diane Sawyer, Ann RomneyDiane Sawyer, left, interviews Ann Romney, wife of U.S. Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, on the floor before the session of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
  US-VOTE-2012-REPUBLICAN CONVENTIONFormer republican presidential candidate Newt Gingrich and his wife Callista appear on stage during a sound check at the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Florida, on August 28, 2012 during the Republican National Convention. The 2012 Republican National Convention is expected to host 2,286 delegates and 2,125 alternate delegates from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and five territories. AFP PHOTO Stan HONDA (Photo credit should read STAN HONDA/AFP/GettyImages)
  2012 Republican National Convention: Day 2TAMPA, FL - AUGUST 28: U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) stands on stage during a soundcheck with stage manager Howard Kolins during the Republican National Convention at the Tampa Bay Times Forum on August 28, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. Today is the first full session of the RNC after the start was delayed due to Tropical Storm Isaac. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
  2012 Republican National Convention: Day 2TAMPA, FL - AUGUST 28: New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who will give the keynote address and his wife Mary Pat Christie stand on stage for a soundcheck during the Republican National Convention at the Tampa Bay Times Forum on August 28, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. Today is the first full session of the RNC after the start was delayed due to Tropical Storm Isaac. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
  Jeb BushFormer Florida Gov. Jeb Bush looks at the convention floor from the podium during a microphone check at the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  In the dimmed lights, state delagate signs are seen on the convention floor after an abbreviated session of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012.(AP Photo/David Goldman)
  2012 Republican National Convention Delayed By Tropical Storm IsaacTAMPA, FL - AUGUST 27: Musician Beau Davidson performs during a sound check during the Republican National Convention at the Tampa Bay Times Forum on August 27, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. The RNC is scheduled to convene today, but will hold its first full session tomorrow after being delayed due to Tropical Storm Isaac. (Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images)
  Alex Casetta, a delegate from Denver, Colo., wears a Pro-Life button on his hat following the opening session of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
  Reince PriebusChairman of the Republican National Committee Reince Priebus speaks to delegates during an abbreviated session the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Jeremy Blosser Jeremy Blosser from Ft. Worth, Texas stands next a mirrored wall on the convention floor after an abbreviated session of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
  Delegates from Texas pray during an abbreviated session of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  Delegates watch a video presentation during an abbreviated session of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012. (AP Photo/David Goldman)
  Delegates from the state of Ohio listen to Chairman of the Republican National Committee Reince Priebus during the abbreviated opening session of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
  Delegates watch a video presentation during an abbreviated session of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
  John Boehner, Diane Sawyer House Speaker John Boehner of Ohio, left, talks to Diane Sawyer on the floor of the Republican National Convention in the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Fla., on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  John BoehnerHouse Speaker John Boehner of Ohio, talks to reporters on the floor of the Republican National Convention in the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Fla., on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  US-VOTE-2012-REPUBLICAN CONVENTIONAmerican political consultant Karl Rove (L) and Senator Orrin Hatch from Utah (R) share a word at the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Florida, during final preparations for the opening of the Republican National Convention on August 27, 2012. Due to tropical storm Isaac, the convention will come to order later today, Monday August 27th, and then immediately recess until the afternoon on Tuesday, August 28th. AFP PHOTO Brendan SMIALOWSKI (Photo credit should read BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/GettyImages)
  2012 Republican National Convention Delayed By Tropical Storm IsaacTAMPA, FL - AUGUST 27: A sign for the Republican National Convention hangs outside Tampa Bay Times Forum on August 27, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. The Republican National Convention is scheduled to convene briefly August 27, and delayed its first full session until August 28 because of Tropical Storm Isaac. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
  Mitch McConnellSenate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Ky. bchecks out the stage at the Republican National Convention inside the Tampa Bay Times Forum, Monday, Aug. 27, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  2012 Republican National Convention Delayed By Tropical Storm IsaacTAMPA, FL - AUGUST 27: Stage workers continue to make last-minute adjustments to the main stage at the Tampa Bay Times Forum on the abbreviated first day of the Republican National Convention August 27, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. Organizers decided to delay the start of the convention as the projected path of Tropical Storm Isaac' put the storm blowing past Tampa and into the Gulf of Mexico. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
  A Coast Guard patrol boat cruises past the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Fla., Monday, Aug. 27, 2012. The start of the Republican National Convention, being held at the facility, has been delayed because of the approaching tropical storm Isaac. (AP Photo/Dave Martin)
  Judy Griffin, of Georgia, takes photos while wearing a hat with Republican Party buttons during the 2012 Tampa Bay Host Committee's welcoming event for the delegates of the Republican National Convention on Sunday, Aug. 26, 2012 at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/The Tampa Tribune, Chris Urso, Pool)
  Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney campaign buttons are displayed ahead of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Sunday, Aug. 26, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
  Herman CainSupporters cheer as former Republican presidential candidate, businessman Herman Cain, speaks during a Unity Rally Sunday Aug. 26, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
  US-VOTE-2012-REPUBLICAN CONVENTIONWilliam Temple (C), in colonial dress, and other Tea Party supporters cheer at the Tea Party Unity Rally at The River at Tampa Bay Church ahead of the Republican National Convention, in Tampa, Florida, on August 26, 2012. AFP PHOTO / ROBYN BECK (Photo credit should read ROBYN BECK/AFP/GettyImages)
  US-VOTE-2012-REPUBLICAN CONVENTIONSupporters of US Republican presidential contender Ron Paul react during his speech at a rally at the Sun Dome of the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida, on August 26, 2012. Thousands of Ron Paul supporters gathered in Sun Dome to show support for their candidate. AFP PHOTO/MLADEN ANTONOV (Photo credit should read MLADEN ANTONOV/AFP/GettyImages)
  US-VOTE-2012-REPUBLICAN CONVENTIONA supporter of the US Republican presidential contender Ron Paul waves his portrait during a rally at the Sun Dome of the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida, on August 26, 2012. Thousands of Ron Paul supporters gathered in Sun Dome to show support for their candidate. AFP PHOTO/MLADEN ANTONOV (Photo credit should read MLADEN ANTONOV/AFP/GettyImages)
  US-VOTE-2012-REPUBLICAN CONVENTIONSupporters wave banners and a portret of US Republican presidential contender Ron Paul during a rally at the Sun Dome of the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida, on August 26, 2012. Thousands of Ron Paul supporters gathered in Sun Dome to show support for their candidate. AFP PHOTO/MLADEN ANTONOV (Photo credit should read MLADEN ANTONOV/AFP/GettyImages)
  Tampa Prepares For Republican National Convention And Potential HurricaneTAMPA, FL - AUGUST 26: South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley waves while standing at the podium with Stage manager Howard Kolins (R) ahead of the Republican National Convention at the Tampa Bay Times Forum on August 26, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. The RNC is scheduled to convene on August 27 and will hold its first session on August 28 as Tropical Storm Isaac threatens disruptions due to its proximity to the Florida peninsula. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
  G.E. SmithGuitarist G.E. Smith rehearses at the Republican National Convention inside of the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Fla., on Sunday, Aug. 26, 2012. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
  Scott Kiss Worker Patrick Gayle of Kissimmee, Fla. wipes the mirror-sided camera stands on the floor of the Republican National Convention in the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Fla., on Sunday, Aug. 26, 2012. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
  Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention inside the Tampa Bay Times Forum, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Jason ChaffetzRep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah, stands on the stage during preparation for the Republican National Convention festivities inside the Tampa Bay Times Forum, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention inside the Tampa Bay Times Forum, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Jason ChaffetzRep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah, gets a look at the stage during preparation for the Republican National Convention festivities inside the Tampa Bay Times Forum, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention inside the Tampa Bay Times Forum, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Anthony Batri, from Largo, Fla., unfurls banners as preparations are made ahead of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012. (AP Photo/Dave Martin)
  Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention inside the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Fla., on Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012. The political convention begins on Monday, Aug. 27th. (AP Photo/Dave Martin)
  Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention inside the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Fla., on Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012. The political convention begins on Monday, Aug. 27th. (AP Photo/Dave Martin)
  Riggers load nets full of balloons for the Republican National Convention festivities inside the Tampa Bay Times Forum, Friday, Aug. 24, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Riggers load nets full of balloons for the Republican National Convention festivities inside the Tampa Bay Times Forum, Friday, Aug. 24, 2012, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
  Tampa Prepares For Republican National Convention And Potential HurricaneTAMPA, FL - AUGUST 23: Video displays that will be used during the Republican National Convention are tested at the Tampa Bay Times Forum on August 23, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. The Republican convention is scheduled to begin in less than a week although Tropical Storm Isaac is threatening possible disruptions due to its proximity to the Florida peninsula. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)
  Members of the media conduct interviews on the floor after the unveiling of the stage and podium for the 2012 Republican National Convention, Monday, Aug. 20, 2012, at the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Iskowitz)
  Reince Priebus, Willan HarrisRepublican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus, left, and convention CEO William Harris unveil the stage and podium for the 2012 Republican National Convention, Monday, Aug. 20, 2012, at the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Iskowitz)
  Reince Priebus, Willan HarrisRepublican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus, left, and convention CEO William Harris unveil the stage and podium for the 2012 Republican National Convention, Monday, Aug. 20, 2012, at the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Iskowitz)
  GOP Previews Site Of Republican National ConventionTAMPA, FL - AUGUST 20: Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus unveils the stage inside of the Tampa Bay Times Forum in preparation for the Republican National Convention on August 20, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. Thousands will decend on Tampa for the four day convention which takes place August 27-30. (Photo by Tim Boyles/Getty Images)
  GOP Previews Site Of Republican National ConventionTAMPA, FL - AUGUST 20: News media report on the unveiling of the stage inside of the Tampa Bay Times Forum in preparation for the Republican National Convention on August 20, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. Thousands will decend on Tampa for the four day convention which takes place August 27-30. (Photo by Tim Boyles/Getty Images)
  GOP Previews Site Of Republican National ConventionTAMPA, FL - AUGUST 20: A worker walks past the stage inside of the Tampa Bay Times Forum in preparation for the Republican National Convention on August 20, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. Thousands will decend on Tampa for the four day convention which takes place August 27-30. (Photo by Tim Boyles/Getty Images)
  GOP Previews Site Of Republican National ConventionTAMPA, FL - AUGUST 20: A woman walks in front of the stage inside of the Tampa Bay Times Forum in preparation for the Republican National Convention on August 20, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. Thousands will decend on Tampa for the four day convention which takes place August 27-30. (Photo by Tim Boyles/Getty Images)
  This photo taken Monday, Aug. 13, 2012 shows downtown Tampa, Fla. The Tampa Bay Times Forum, right, is the location of the Republican National Convention, which will be held Aug. 27-30. Traffic caused by road closures and protests are a concern of downtown workers and residents. (AP Photo/Tamara Lush)
  Protesters Demonstrate During The Republican National ConventionTAMPA, FL - AUGUST 27: Code Pink protesters goad people waiting in line to enter Ybor City's Cuban Club which is reported to be hosting a party attended by U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), former Florida Governor Jeb Bush and others as the Republican National Convention is set to begin on August 27, 2012 in Tampa, Florida. The Code Pink demostrators were accusing the people attending the party of being rich as well as supporters of presumptive Republican presidential nominee, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
  Texas delegates gather in the Tampa Bay Times Forum during the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
  US-VOTE-2012-REPUBLICAN CONVENTIONAnti-Mitt Romney protesters march through the streets in Tampa, Florida, on August 26, 2012 ahead of the Republican National Convention. The 2012 Republican National Convention was scheduled to be held at the Tampa Bay Times Forum from August 27-30, 2012, but was cut short by one day due to incoming severe weather and possible hurricane conditions. AFP PHOTO Robyn BECK (Photo credit should read ROBYN BECK/AFP/GettyImages)
The2News: Obama Honored Fallen SEALs By Sending Their Parents a Form Letter Signed By Electric Pen http://t.co/C0yUil2T via @gatewaypundit
  Link to Article
  Source: Twitter / The2News
  Thu, 30 Aug 2012 02:01
  On August 6, 2011, 30 US service members were killed when a CH-47 Chinook helicopter they were being transported in crashed in Wardak province, Afghanistan. It was the deadliest single loss for U.S. forces in the decade-long war in Afghanistan. 17 members of the elite Navy SEALs were killed in the crash.
  Yesterday, Karen and Billy Vaughn, parents of Aaron Carson Vaughn, spoke at the Defending the Defenders forum sponsored by the Tea Party Patriots outside the RNC Convention in Tampa. Karen brought a copy of the form letter they were sent following their son's death.
  It's a form letter.It was signed by an electric pen.
  That's not all.Karen Vaughn reached out to the parents of the other SEALs killed in that crash.Their letters were all the same.Form letters '' signed by an electric pen.
  Here's a closer look at the letter sent to the parents of Chief Petty Officer Nicholas H. Null.It's the same form letter.
  After the deadliest single loss of US forces in Afghanistan, Barack Obama sent out form letters to the parents.
Leveson 'loading a gun' at press
  Link to Article
  Source: BBC News - Home
  Thu, 30 Aug 2012 01:58
  29 August 2012Last updated at 21:09 ET Lord Justice Leveson is "loading a gun" at the newspaper industry according to Chris Blackhurst, editor of The Independent.
  He was reacting to letters sent by the inquiry to give prior notice of possible criticism in the final report.
  Mr Blackhurst said he was shocked by the document, which he described as "a damning indictment of my industry".
  Lord Justice Leveson said he was disappointed details of the private letters were being "openly discussed".
  Hearings for the media ethics inquiry, which was prompted by the News of the World phone-hacking scandal, closed at the end of July, with 650 witnesses testifying in person or in writing.
  'Diatribe'The correspondence, known as a Rule 13 letter, was sent to all national newspaper groups and major regional companies.
  They provide an opportunity for those facing possible criticism to respond in advance of the report's publication.
  Continue reading the main storyThe fact is that newspapers are an adornment to our society. We would be lost without them.''
  End QuoteChris BlackhurstChris Blackhurst told BBC Radio 4's The Media Show that he could not discuss the specific contents of the letter for legal reasons but it was "a point by point demolition of the industry".
  "The best way I can describe it is he's loading a gun, and this document - well over 100 pages - is all the ammunition. And believe you me there is plenty of ammunition, you read the ammunition and you just gulp."
  He said he felt "shock and anger" at how "one-sided" the letter was, calling it "a diatribe" that "throws the book at the industry".
  Some of the criticisms in the document were, he said, "certainly justified" but others "raise eyebrows" and did not bear any relation to practices at his paper or other titles at his "end of the market".
  "The fact is that newspapers are an adornment to our society. We would be lost without them," he added.
  'Confidential'"Story after story, scandal after scandal has been broken by newspapers, not by anybody else. That simply is not reflected in this document."
  A spokesman for the inquiry said: "Lord Justice Leveson is disappointed that the contents of confidential letters that he has written are being openly discussed in the press."
  "He wants to make it clear that all recipients of these letters - which are issued in accordance with Rule 13 of the Inquiry Rules 2006 - are obliged by this confidence."
  "These letters are a standard part of inquiry procedures and give private notice of possible criticism in order that recipients can respond before any concluded view is reached," he added.
  "By their nature such letters are, of course, one-sided documents and are not intended (as it makes clear) to deal with the positive aspects of the activities of the press: plainly, no warning is necessary for that purpose."