Keepingitreal

14th Amendment Section 4

Validity of public debt

[Section 4 14th Amendment] confirmed the legitimacy of all United States public debt appropriated by the Congress. It also confirmed that neither the United States nor any state would pay for the loss of slaves or debts that had been incurred by the Confederacy. For example, several English and French banks had lent money to the South during the war.[48] In Perry v. United States (1935), the Supreme Court ruled that under Section 4 voiding a United States government bond "went beyond the congressional power."[49] Legal analyst Jeffrey Rosen has argued that Section 4 gives the president unilateral authority to raise or ignore the national debt ceiling, and that if challenged the Supreme Court would likely rule in favor of expanded executive power or dismiss the case altogether for lack of standing.[50] Erwin Chemerinsky, professor and dean at University of California, Irvine School of Law, has argued that not even in a "dire financial emergency" could the President raise the debt ceiling as "there is no reasonable way to interpret the Constitution that [allows him to do so]". [51] The issue of the 14th Amendment and the debt ceiling has been categorized as an unsettled question in the legal community.

Today's News Highlights 06.29.11

TODAY'S HIGHLIGHTS
Kabul hotel attacked by suicide bombers
A squad of bombers and gunmen attacked a landmark hotel in the Afghan capital late Tuesday, exploding a vehicle at its gate and then entering the building.
(By Pamela Constable)

New IMF chief Lagarde faces immediate tests
Lagarde faces immediate tests in Greece, as well as a longer-range commitment to giving developing nations more power within the IMF.
(By Howard Schneider)

FBI looks at Arlington Cemetery procedures
A broad criminal inquiry also seeks evidence of possible contracting fraud and falsification of records, people familiar with the investigation said.
(By Jerry Markon and Christian Davenport)

Kerry, McCain share long friendship
Their personal bonds and foreign policy views have been shaped by war.
(By Paul Kane)

D.C. seeks foothold in online gambling
D.C. officials are scrambling to launch an online casino in the city, which is the first jurisdiction in the United States to sanction Internet gambling.
(By Michael Laris)

POLITICS
Latest scandals show South Korea still struggles to shed corrupt, collusive ways
SEOUL, South Korea — Allegations of multibillion dollar fraud at banks and revelations by South Korea’s top business conglomerate of shady dealings are forcing the country to grapple anew with a legacy of deep-seated corruption.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Republicans turn labor dispute with Boeing into political headache for Obama
WASHINGTON — The government’s labor dispute with Boeing Co. is turning into a political headache for President Barack Obama, giving his Republican rivals a fresh opening to bash the administration’s economic policies.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Obama, Biden to meet Senate Democratic leaders in debt discussions
WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden plan to meet with Senate Democratic leaders Wednesday, the latest step in debt negotiations with Congress.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Matching Supreme Court justices
The Supreme Court term that ended Monday appeared to make clear that Bush and Obama got what they hoped for when they nominated the justices who will shape the court’s future.
( by Robert Barnes , The Washington Post)

DC readies nation's first government-run online poker operation, and stakes will be low
WASHINGTON — Residents of the nation’s capital could be able to play government-sponsored Texas Hold ‘Em poker and other online games on their laptops within three months even though such wagering is essentially banned in the rest of the country.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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STYLE
Ask Amy: Couple can’t agree to disagree about exes
My boyfriend and I are thinking about becoming engaged. He keeps in regular contact with his exes, and I think this is really weird.
(, Tribune Media Service)

Hints From Heloise: Ketchup concern
In a Heloise flashback, a reader wonders: Should ketchup be refrigerated after it’s opened?
(, King)

Marriage or cohabitation?
After two years of dating he’s ready to move in with her. But after lots of divorces in his family he’s not ready for marriage.
(, The Washington Post)

Shylock’s the highlight in contrived ‘Merchant’
Mark Nelson is a superb Shylock in Shakespeare Theatre’s otherwise forcibly contrived handling of “The Merchant of Venice.”
( by Peter Marks , The Washington Post)



(, The Washington Post)

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SPORTS
General Electric extends global Olympic sponsorship through 2020 Summer Games
LAUSANNE, Switzerland — General Electric Co. extended its global Olympic sponsorship through 2020 on Wednesday in a four-games deal worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Tuesday's Sports In Brief
WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court won’t revive baseball star Roger Clemens’ lawsuit against his former personal trainer for claiming he injected the pitcher with steroids and human growth hormones.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Ndamukong Suh says he sees 'positive light' in talks to end the NFL lockout
WALLED LAKE, Mich. — Ndamukong Suh is spending his offseason traveling, working out, rehabbing his surgically repaired shoulder and spending time with family and friends.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

South Carolina repeats as national champion with 5-2 win, sweep of CWS finals over Florida
OMAHA, Neb. — Michael Roth pitched 7 2-3 innings on three days’ rest, and South Carolina won its second straight national championship with a 5-2 victory Tuesday night that completed a two-game sweep over Florida in the College World Series finals.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Interim financing deal will allow Dodgers to keep playing during bankrutpcy, but battle looms
WILMINGTON, Del. — Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt may have won the first round in a bankruptcy court fight with Major League Baseball, however the two sides are gearing up for what could be a protracted battle for control of one of the most storied teams in baseball.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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WORLD
AP IMPACT: FBI's hunt for al-Qaida's 'third man' merges identities of two different people
LONDON — The FBI’s most-wanted list features a dated black-and-white photograph for the man wanted in connection with the 1998 U.S. embassy bombings in Tanzania and Kenya. Saif al-Adel, reads the glaring red banner, alias Muhammad Ibrahim Makkawi.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

North Korea says it will retaliate militarily for South Korea army units' anti-Pyongyang signs
SEOUL, South Korea — North Korea’s military vowed Wednesday to retaliate for anti-Pyongyang signs posted at front-line South Korean army units, as rare talks between the rivals on a stalled joint tourism project broke down.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Sizzle of fizzle? Britain faces mass strikes as unions try to increase the heat on government
LONDON — Thousands of British schools will close and travelers will face long lines at airport immigration this week when three quarters of a million workers go on strike — the first blast in what unions hope will be a summer of discontent against the cost-cutting government’s austerity plans.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Myanmar state media warn democracy leader Suu Kyi that planned tour could trigger riots
YANGON, Myanmar — Myanmar’s state media warned pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Wednesday that her plans to travel outside Yangon to meet supporters could trigger riots.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Embattled Sudan president visits chief diplomatic backer, China
BEIJING — Sudan’s embattled president conferred Wednesday with his chief diplomatic backer, China, reaching agreements on economic support just days before the southern part of his country becomes independent.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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LIVE DISCUSSIONS
D.C.'s biggest stories: Lunchline's Clinton Yates breaks them down (video)
Clinton Yates a news junkie and pop culture fanatic who scours The Washington Post and its partner sites every weekday to find the gems that you want to read but don't have time to search for.
(, vForum)

Ask Boswell
Sports Columnist Tom Boswell will take your questions about baseball, the Redskins, the Wizards and more.
(, vForum)

Opinion Focus with Eugene Robinson
Washington Post columnist Eugene Robinson discusses his recent columns and the latest news in a live Q&A.
(, vForum)

Don't make the economy worse: Opinion Focus with Eugene Robinson
Washington Post columnist Eugene Robinson discusses his recent columns and the latest news in a live Q&A.
(, vForum)

Dana Milbank Live
Dana Milbank is recruiting cabin stewards, apologists and Tiffany's liaisons to help Newt Gringrich on his 2012 campaign.
(, vForum)

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TECHNOLOGY
Toyota to recall 82,200 vehicles in the US due to possible faulty computer boards
TOKYO — Toyota Motor Corp. said Wednesday it will recall about 82,200 hybrid SUVs in the U.S. due to computer boards with possible faulty wiring.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

That Was Quick: Chrome Extension Adds Facebook, Twitter Sharing To Google+

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Good First Sign: I Have A Strong Desire To Keep Using Google+

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Kodak looks to vanquish Apple and RIM in patent forum, brightening its turnaround picture
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Innovation turned Eastman Kodak Co. into one of the world’s most recognizable brands. Imitation by its rivals might help keep the picture-taking pioneer from fading into history.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Square Closes That $100 Million Round, Mary Meeker Joins Board

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

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BUSINESS
Toyota to recall 82,200 vehicles in the US due to possible faulty computer boards
TOKYO — Toyota Motor Corp. said Wednesday it will recall about 82,200 hybrid SUVs in the U.S. due to computer boards with possible faulty wiring.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

World stock markets rise on signs that Greece may adopt controversial austerity measures
BANGKOK — Hopes that Greece will enact an unpopular set of austerity measures to prevent the country from defaulting on its massive debts sent world stocks higher Wednesday.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Greek austerity bill set to pass as all bar one Greek Socialist deputy appear in favor
ATHENS, Greece — Greek deputies are poised to back a deeply unpopular austerity bill Wednesday that is essential for the country to get crucial bailout funds and avoid a devastating default on its debts.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

That Was Quick: Chrome Extension Adds Facebook, Twitter Sharing To Google+

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

France to name new finance minister after Lagarde chosen to head IMF
PARIS — France is expected to name a new finance minister to replace Christine Lagarde, who is leaving to take up the top job at the International Monetary Fund next week.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Today's News Highlights 06.27.11

 TODAY'S HIGHLIGHTS
At Fort Campbell, mixed reviews for Afghan plan
Pfc. Rob Nunez, who spent eight months in Konar province near the Pakistani border, and some of his fellow soldiers have vastly different reactions to the plan.
(By Kevin Sieff)

Nancy Pelosi pursues her own ‘faith-based initiative’
House minority leader has her sights on winning back the speaker’s gavel for Democrats.
(By Karen Tumulty and Paul Kane)

Does GOP have a compromise on debt?
As President Obama prepares to meet with Senate leaders to try to restart talks over the debt, some Republicans see a potential path to compromise: Significant cuts in military spending.
(By Lori Montgomery and Paul Kane)

DNA links fugitive to professor’s slaying, FBI says
DNA evidence links a fugitive in Mexico to the killing of an American University professor, the FBI says.
(By Dan Morse)

A pair of veteran spies cross paths
Betty McIntosh and Doris Bohrer served in the OSS and CIA, but their remarkable friendship didn’t form until they moved to the same retirement community.
(By Ian Shapira)

POLITICS
President Barack Obama talks spending and debt limit with Senate leaders
WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama takes over negotiations on spending cuts and raising the government’s borrowing limit when he holds separate meetings Monday with Senate leaders.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Supreme Court to rule Monday on Arizona law giving extra cash to publicly funded candidates
WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court is expected to rule Monday on an Arizona campaign finance law that gives extra cash to publicly funded candidates who face privately funded rivals and independent groups.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

AP IMPACT: Once-rural populations skyrocket near some US nuclear plants, evacuations unlikely
BUCHANAN, N.Y. — As America’s nuclear power plants have aged, the once-rural areas around them have become far more crowded and much more difficult to evacuate. Yet government and industry have paid little heed, even as plants are running at higher power and posing more danger in the event of an accident, an Associated Press investigation has found.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Supreme Court to rule Monday on California ban on sale, rental of violent video games to kids
WASHINGTON — Is it unconstitutional to ban the sale or rental of ultraviolent video games to children?
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Supreme Court to rule Monday on Arizona law giving extra cash to publicly funded candidates
WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court is expected to rule Monday on an Arizona campaign finance law that gives extra cash to publicly funded candidates who face privately funded rivals and independent groups.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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STYLE
Recession-wary performers turn Las Vegas Strip into parade of cartoon, movie characters
LAS VEGAS — The Las Vegas Strip is teeming with Spidermen, Elmos and Elvis Presleys of all waistlines.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Ask Amy: Husband ’fesses up to old affairs; wife is torn
Her husband confessed to indulging in two affairs years ago. She went to counseling with him and was told by the counselor to “get over it.” A) She’s not ready to and B) What kind of therapist is that?
(, Tribune Media Service)

Hints From Heloise: A unique wedding gift
Why not donate food left over from a wedding reception to a homeless shelter?
(, King)

Can sisters’ estrangement be avoided?
My religious-convert sister told my gay sister that she, her husband and children will not ever meet our gay sister’s 1-year-old twins.
(, The Washington Post)

Documentary presents case against tort reform
Susan Saladoff’s compellingly persuasive, no-nonsense documentary, “Hot Coffee,” explores the effects of the American war on “frivolous lawsuits.”
( by Hank Stuever , The Washington Post)

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SPORTS
Sunday's Sports In Brief
LEON, Mexico — Two-time heart transplant recipient Erik Compton won the Mexico Open for his first Nationwide Tour title, closing with a 7-under 65 on Sunday for a two-stroke victory over Richard H. Lee.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Former Tar Heels star Jessica Breland recives Honda Inspiration Award at dinner
NEW YORK — Jessica Breland is always happy to share her story of overcoming Hodgkin’s lymphoma with the hope it can be helpful to someone else.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

PGA Tour: Travelers win is Jacobson’s first title
CROMWELL, Conn. — Fredrik Jacobson closed out his first PGA Tour title on Sunday, shooting a 4-under 66 in the Travelers Championship for a one-stroke victory over John Rollins and Ryan Moore.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Knee, hamstring injuries had Mitts fearing World Cup 'jinx' but she's with US in Germany
DRESDEN, Germany — When Heather Mitts felt that familiar pain in her hamstring during training last month, it was almost too much for the U.S. defender.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Tseng runs away with LPGA Championship
Top-ranked Yani Tseng wins the LPGA Championship by 10 strokes and, at 22, become the youngest player to win four LPGA Tour majors.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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WORLD
Malaysia says women must hold 30 percent of top corporate posts by 2016 for gender equality
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Malaysia’s government says women must hold 30 percent of top corporate posts by 2016 in a move toward gender equality in the boardroom.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Syrian opposition to meet in Damascus for first time since start of uprising
BEIRUT — Some 200 critics of President Bashar Assad’s regime are gathering in the Syrian capital for the first time since the start of the three-month uprising against his family’s rule.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

China says arrival of Sudanese president in Beijing for talks has been delayed
BEIJING — A planned visit by Sudan’s president to China, which was criticized by rights groups because he is wanted on international war crimes charges, was delayed Monday, though officials gave no reason.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao to strike trade deals worth $1.6 billion in UK talks
LONDON — Britain says the U.K. and China are sealing trade deals worth 1 billion pounds (US$1.6 billion) at a summit between national leaders.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Palestinians fan out across globe to seek support for recognition at UN
RAMALLAH, West Bank — Palestinian delegations will make the rounds of nearly a dozen countries to try to drum up more support for their bid to have the United Nations recognize a Palestinian state, senior officials said Monday.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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LIVE DISCUSSIONS
The Mil Life: Keeping spouses' careers, education off the chopping block
Military wives discuss keeping a career and educational goals through deployments.
(, vForum)

The Web Hostess: Online manners, memes and must-see video
A weekly chat about the best ways to kill time online. Our Web Hostess, Monica Hesse, sifts the Internet so you don't have to, searching for meaning, manners and the next great meme.
(, vForum)

Real Wheels Live
Live online discussion with Real Wheels columnist Warren Brown about car-buying and the auto industry.
(, vForum)

Lisa de Moraes on the TV Column
Post TV columnist Lisa de Moraes is back and ready to chat about all the drama, comedy and heartbreak of the world of television -- both onscreen and behind-the-scenes!
(, vForum)

Lisa de Moraes on the TV Column
Post TV columnist Lisa de Moraes is back and ready to chat about all the drama, comedy and heartbreak of the world of television -- both onscreen and behind-the-scenes!
(, vForum)

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TECHNOLOGY
The Celebrity Moment

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Startups Don’t Die, They Commit Suicide

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Fanvibe Signs A Letter Of Intent To Be Acquired By beRecruited

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

RunKeeper Adds New Integration To Its Health Graph In Hopes Of Building ‘The Facebook Of Fitness’

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

World stock markets mixed on fears that Europe's debt crisis is about to get worse
BANGKOK — World markets were mixed Monday as Greece’s parliament began debating harsh new austerity measures that must pass for the country get its next batch of emergency financial aid.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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BUSINESS
Greek deputies to begin debate on crucial austerity plans before votes
ATHENS, Greece — Greek lawmakers begin debating new austerity plans Monday that must pass this week if the debt-ridden country is to receive the critical next installment of loans from its international bailout plan and avoid default.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

The Celebrity Moment

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Saab says $18.4 million car order from China could pay staff's wages
STOCKHOLM — Troubled car maker Saab Automobile AB has received a €13 million ($18.4 million) car order from a Chinese company that could help pay salaries to its employees, its owner Swedish Automobile AB said Monday.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Akzo Nobel, world's biggest paintmaker, warns 'adverse factors' will hurt Q2 earnings
AMSTERDAM — Akzo Nobel NV, the world’s largest maker of paint, warned Monday that second-quarter earnings will be hurt by commodity price rises, weak business in some regions and maintenance delays at some plants.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Oil falls to near $90 a barrel in Asia as US dollar gains amid Greek debt crisis
SINGAPORE — Oil prices fell to near $90 a barrel Monday in Asia as a stronger U.S. dollar made crude more expensive for investors with other currencies.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Today's News Highlights 06.20.11

TODAY'S HIGHLIGHTS
McIlroy captures history at Congressional
Rory McIlroy posts the lowest mark in tournament history, shooting a final-round 69 for a total of 16-under 268, as he runs away with the 111th U.S. Open.
(By Barry Svrluga)

CEO Pay: What the area’s executives make
Hefty stock awards and bonuses drove total compensation up over 20 percent for Washington’s highest-paid chief executives last year, reflecting a nationwide trend among the largest public companies.
(By Danielle Douglas)

With executive pay, rich pull away from America
A mounting body of economic research indicates that the rise in pay for company executives is a critical feature in the widening income gap.
(By Peter Whoriskey)

Rise in charitable giving may signal economic rebound
Charitable giving in the United States rose last year for the first time in two years, signaling a rebound in the economy.
(By Annie Gowen)

Hospitals courting primary-care doctors
The push is forcing doctors to make decisions about how to deliver care to patients.
(By Lena H. Sun)

POLITICS
PROMISES, PROMISES: No action yet from Obama on guns despite call for steps
WASHINGTON — More than five months after Rep. Gabrielle Giffords was shot in the head, the White House has yet to take any new steps on gun violence, even though that’s what President Barack Obama called for in the wake of the shooting.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Black slaves, freedmen risked their lives to work as Union spies down South during Civil War
WASHINGTON — In the Confederate circles he navigated, John Scobell was considered just another Mississippi slave: singing, shuffling, illiterate and completely ignorant of the Civil War going on around him.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

PROMISES, PROMISES: No action yet from Obama on guns despite call for steps
WASHINGTON — More than five months after Rep. Gabrielle Giffords was shot in the head, the White House has yet to take any new steps on gun violence, even though that’s what President Barack Obama called for in the wake of the shooting.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Michelle Obama aims to inspire youth leaders during upcoming visit to South Africa, Botswana
WASHINGTON — Michelle Obama is fond of saying there’s no magic to her being first lady.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

First lady departs for trip to to Africa
First lady Michelle Obama, along with her two daughters, left for Africa on Sunday, her second official solo journey abroad.
(, The Washington Post)

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STYLE
Ask Amy: Words of love, uttered and ... forgotten?
During a weekend outing, her boyfriend told her he loved her, would marry her “in a week” and wanted her to have his baby. The next day, he couldn’t remember what he said. Yes, there was drinking involved.
(, Tribune Media Service)

Hints From Heloise: Special guest request
Heloise asks: Is it fair to ask for unusual, specialty or hard-to-find food items when you are a guest in someone’s home? Readers, what do you have to say?
(, King)

Why a mom may have stayed with an abusive husband
Mom didn’t leave her abusive husband and now a daughter won’t forgive her. Did Mom have a good reason for staying — such as loss of her children?
(, The Washington Post)

Calm by the green, crazed by the pitch
At the U.S. Open and the Gold Cup, vastly dissimilar cultures were on display — entirely different, yet very much the same.
( by Rick Maese , The Washington Post)

FTC vs. National Gallery
Republican lawmaker’s push to have the National Gallery take over the historic FTC building has sparked a turf battle in Washington.
( by Ned Martel , The Washington Post)

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SPORTS
Giants fan beating suspect up for parole revocation hearing at Los Angeles jail
LOS ANGELES — The main suspect in the brutal beating of a San Francisco Giants fan outside Dodger Stadium in March faces a court hearing to determine whether he should remain in jail for violating terms of his parole.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Sunday's Sports In Brief
BETHESDA, Md. — On another brilliant day of golf, Rory McIlroy ran away with the U.S. Open title, winning by eight shots and breaking the tournament scoring record by a whopping four strokes.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Franchitti wins in Milwaukee, pulls even with Power in IndyCar points standings
WEST ALLIS, Wis. — With Sunday’s win in Milwaukee, Dario Franchitti pulled even with Will Power in the IndyCar Series points standings.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Even with White Sox, Cubs under .500, crosstown series could provide some drama
CHICAGO — Ozzie Guillen’s kidney stone just might be the perfect metaphor for this baseball season in Chicago.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Ticket to Augusta: Kevin Chappell's strong US Open comes to a Masters-ful conclusion
BETHESDA, Md. — The top eight finishers at the U.S. Open qualify for next year’s Masters, and that’s a big deal for someone like Kevin Chappell.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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WORLD
Reports: Japan's prime minister under pressure to resign next month
TOKYO — Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan, criticized for his handling of the tsunami disaster and the country’s sluggish economy, is under pressure to resign next month if budget bills are passed by parliament, reports said Monday.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Syria’s president: ‘Saboteurs’ are trying to exploit a movement seeking legitimate reforms
Syria’s embattled president says “saboteurs” are trying to exploit legitimate demands for reform in the country.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

British foreign secretary says Syrian leader Assad must reform or go, asks Turkey's help
LUXEMBOURG — Britain’s foreign secretary said Monday that Syria’s leader must reform or go, as the country’s regime continues a brutal crackdown on dissent.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Greek power company workers start strikes against privatization, potentially causing shortages
ATHENS, Greece — Greece faces potential power outages as employees at the main power utility strike to protest the company’s privatization, part of austerity plans essential for the country to avoid a default.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Handful of Melbourne-Sydney flights canceled as volcanic ash moves over southern Australia
SYDNEY — Qantas and Virgin Australia plan to cancel flights into and out of the southern city of Adelaide on Tuesday, when an ash cloud from a Chilean volcano is expected to again move into Australian airspace. Some service on a budget carrier between the country’s two largest cities was also suspended.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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LIVE DISCUSSIONS

Outlook: Faux lesbians and anonymity online
Join Washington Post bloggers Melissa Bell and Elizabeth Flock as they discuss the quest to unmask the real blogger behind the "Gay Girl in Damascus" blog.
(, vForum)

D.C.'s biggest stories: Lunchline's Clinton Yates breaks them down (video)
Clinton Yates a news junkie and pop culture fanatic who scours The Washington Post and its partner sites every weekday to find the gems that you want to read but don't have time to search for.
(, vForum)

Outlook: Faux lesbians and anonymity online
Join Washington Post bloggers Melissa Bell and Elizabeth Flock as they discuss the quest to unmask the real blogger behind the "Gay Girl in Damascus" blog.
(, vForum)

From devoted, to deadbeat, to cannibal: How animal fathers survive in the wild
Join Dr. Stephen Vessey as he chats about the various ways animals choose to rear their young. How different are they from human dads?
(, vForum)

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TECHNOLOGY
‘Reminder: Call Dad,’ Another Notch In Google’s Belt Of Social Fail

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Adobe Software Updates To Help Devs Build iOS, PlayBook And Android Apps

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

The Bitcoin Trials Continue: Mt. Gox Exchange Collapses Due To Compromised Account

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

VillageVines Relaunches As Savored, Expands Discount Dining To 10 Cities

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Yup, YouTube Counts Video Ads As Regular Views

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

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EDITORIAL
More questions about those erasures
D.C. school officials wonder why the popular Singapore math program hasn’t worked at an elementary school.
(, The Washington Post)

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BUSINESS
Athens will get loan to avoid default, but must act on spending, privatization laws
LUXEMBOURG — The markets were in jittery mood once again Monday after eurozone finance ministers failed to agree to release the next bailout loan installment to Greece — money that is needed to prevent a debt default that could trigger financial chaos.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Athens will get loan to avoid default, but must act on spending, privatization laws
LUXEMBOURG — European stocks and the euro slipped Monday after eurozone finance ministers came up short of a final deal to get Greece its next installment of bailout money that is needed to prevent a default that could cause financial chaos.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Airbus superjumbo A380 grounded at Paris Air Show after clipping a wing
LE BOURGET, France — Airbus’ star jet has been grounded after clipping a wing on a taxiway structure, the latest in an embarrassing string of incidents for the European jet maker at the aviation industry’s premier showcase.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Japanese exports drop 10.3 percent in May as impact from quake and tsunami lingers
TOKYO — Japan’s exports dropped for the third straight month in May, hit by massive production losses in the auto sector following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami disasters, the government said Monday.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

‘Reminder: Call Dad,’ Another Notch In Google’s Belt Of Social Fail

Baggage Fees for the Troops

Today's News Highlights 06.16.11

TODAY'S HIGHLIGHTS
White House defends Libya action
The administration’s stance puts it at odds with GOP leaders and some anti-war Democrats.
(By Scott Wilson)

Greek default fears sharpen
Growing political turmoil intensifies concerns that Greece may be spiraling toward default, potentially igniting a new phase in Europe’s debt crisis.
(By Anthony Faiola and Howard Schneider)

A new low for U.S., Pakistan
Officials say the security relationship between the two nations is the rockiest it’s been since 2001.
(By Karen DeYoung and and Griff Witte)

Arizona Rep. Giffords released from Houston hospital, 5 months after being shot
HOUSTON — Arizona Rep. Gabrielle Giffords was released from a Houston hospital on Wednesday, five months after being shot in the head during a Tucson political event.
(By Associated Press)

Bruins hoist the Stanley Cup
Boston captures the Stanley Cup for the first time in 39 years with a 4-0 victory over the Canucks in Game 7 in Vancouver.
(By Associated Press)

POLITICS
AP source: House Democratic leaders plan to meet Thursday to consider next step in Weiner case
WASHINGTON — House Democratic leaders are planning to meet Thursday to consider the next step in handling the scandal embroiling Rep. Anthony Weiner, who has resisted calls to resign in the midst of a sexting scandal that has been a major distraction for his party for nearly three weeks.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Study finds dads are spending much more time with kids than they did a few generations ago
WASHINGTON — The percentage of American fathers who live apart from their children has doubled over the last half-century. But, to their credit, many of today’s dads are spending more than twice as much time with their kids as they did back then.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

White House report on Libya does little to soothe anger among lawmakers on Capitol Hill
WASHINGTON — The White House is vigorously defending President Barack Obama’s right to keep the U.S. military engaged in Libya without seeking congressional approval, a move that appears to have done little to soothe anger among Republican lawmakers and anti-war Democrats over the president’s consultations with Congress during the nearly three month-long campaign.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

White House report on Libya does little to soothe anger among lawmakers on Capitol Hill
WASHINGTON — The White House is vigorously defending President Barack Obama’s right to keep the U.S. military engaged in Libya without seeking congressional approval.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Hackers who breached Senate computer system say they hit CIA website
WASHINGTON — A group of hackers who breached the Senate computer system earlier this week claimed responsibility for problems with the CIA’s website Wednesday.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

---

STYLE
Carolyn Hax: Money matters
How to handle a situation in which you loan an old friend money.
(, The Washington Post)

Ask Amy: Teacher needs to go to spending school
Retiree scrimped and saved so much during her working years that she’s at a loss now on how to enjoy her hard-earned money.
(, Tribune Media Service)

Miss Manners: Who wins in ‘culture’ clash?
Dear Miss Manners: When cultural differences result in different expectations of the hostess and guest obligations, to whose culture should we defer; the hostess’s or the guest’s?
(, United Media)

Is it a musical? Or a textbook? ‘Canto’ can’t decide
GALA Hispanic Theatre’s final offering of the 2010-11 season trips over its wordiness.
(, The Washington Post)

‘Green Lantern’ is plausible and none too illuminating
‘Green Lantern’ is neither amusing nor exciting enough to ensure a long-running franchise.
( by Mark Jenkins Special to The Washington Post , The Washington Post)

---

SPORTS
Wednesday's Sports In Brief
VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Tim Thomas drew a virtual line in his crease throughout the crazy, contentious Stanley Cup finals, and Boston’s brilliant goalie just wouldn’t allow the Vancouver Canucks to cross it whenever it really mattered.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Vancouver fans set cars on fire, fling bottles after Stanley Cup loss to Bruins
VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Parked cars were set on fire, others were tipped over and people threw beer bottles at giant television screens following the Vancouver Canucks’ 4-0 loss to the Boston Bruins on Wednesday night in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Luongo insists Canucks will compete for Stanley Cup again after falling to Bruins in Game 7
VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Roberto Luongo insists the Canucks will be back.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Boston Bruins end 39 years of futility beat Vancouver Canucks in Game 7 for Stanley Cup
VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Zdeno Chara thrust the Stanley Cup high above his 6-foot-9 frame, knocking off his own championship hat and nearly falling down. The Boston Bruins’ captain passed it to 43-year-old Mark Recchi, who raised the shiny silver trophy for a third and final time.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Malaysian soccer coach is third suspect charged with match-fixing in youth tournament
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Malaysian authorities have charged a second soccer coach in a widening scandal over match-fixing at a domestic youth tournament.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

---

WORLD
Countries back treaty recognizing labor rights for millions of domestic workers
GENEVA — Countries have voted to to back a new convention that will recognize labor rights for millions of maids, nannies and cooks around the world
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

ConocoPhillips, Bangladesh sign contract to explore for gas in deep waters of Bay of Bengal
DHAKA, Bangladesh — Bangladesh has signed a production-sharing contract with American energy giant ConocoPhillips to explore for gas in the virtually unexplored deep waters of the Bay of Bengal.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

French health authorities recall hamburgers after 5 children sickened from E. coli
PARIS — French health authorities have ordered a recall of hamburger patties after five children were contaminated with E. coli.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Second governing Socialist party deputy resigns his parliamentary seat in Athens
ATHENS, Greece — Second governing Socialist party deputy resigns his parliamentary seat in Athens.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Syrian authorities detain hundreds of young men in the northwest, activists say
GUVECCI, Turkey — Syrian security forces made sweeping arrests Thursday, randomly detaining males above the age of 16 in a northwestern province that has been under military siege for a week, a Syrian human rights activist said.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

---

LIVE DISCUSSIONS
Campus Overload Live with Jenna Johnson
Jenna Johnson answers your questions about college life, on and off campus.
(, vForum)

The Weather Gang Lab with Jason Samenow (Video)
Capital Weather Gang's Jason Samenow digs into this week's big weather story. Join the chat to find out what will happen -- and why.
(, vForum)

D.C.'s biggest stories: Lunchline's Clinton Yates breaks them down (Video)
Clinton Yates a news junkie and pop culture fanatic who scours The Washington Post and its partner sites every weekday to find the gems that you want to read but don't have time to search for.
(, vForum)

Elementary graduations, D.C. best for families, Catholic U ditches co-ed dorms: Lunchline's Clinton Yates breaks them down (Video)
Clinton Yates a news junkie and pop culture fanatic who scours The Washington Post and its partner sites every weekday to find the gems that you want to read but don't have time to search for.
(, vForum)

The Web Hostess: Online manners, memes and must-see video
A weekly chat about the best ways to kill time online. Our Web Hostess, Monica Hesse, sifts the Internet so you don't have to, searching for meaning, manners and the next great meme.
(, vForum)

---

TECHNOLOGY
Citigroup says hackers stole data on 360,000
HONG KONG — Hackers stole account information of more than 360,000 of Citigroup Inc.’s U.S. credit card customers in a recent data breach, the bank said Wednesday, almost double the number initially thought.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Hell Yes, Mayor Bloomberg. I’m With You.

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Citigroup says hackers stole account information of 360,000 customers in recent data breach
HONG KONG — Citigroup Inc. says hackers stole the account information in a recent data breach of more than 360,000 U.S. credit card customers, much higher than initially thought.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Yahoo Tries Its Hand At Mobile App Search

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Attn Sports Fans, Journalists, And Parents Of Young Athletes, GameChanger Is On Line Two

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

---

BUSINESS
Korean Air takes first A380 to the skies with unique configuration for business travelers
INCHEON, South Korea — Korean Air showed off its first Airbus A380, outfitted with a unique full business class upper deck, in a pair of special flights Thursday, a day before the launch of regular international service.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Asian markets tumble on unrest over Greek debt crisis, China ecomomy fears
HONG KONG — World stocks tumbled on Thursday, hammered by continuing fears that Europe’s debt crisis could spiral out of control and worries over China’s economy.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Greek PM may resign amid austerity riots
Greece’s beleaguered government was in power-sharing talks with the opposition conservatives and negotiating the resignation of Prime Minister George Papandreou, an effort to ensure approval of new austerity measures required to avoid bankruptcy.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

UK retail sales fall 1.4 pct in May after royal wedding spending spree in April
LONDON — Officials figures show that retail sales in Britain fell by a worse than expected 1.4 percent in May as consumers turned their attention from a royal wedding to their own economic worries.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Citigroup says hackers stole data on 360,000
HONG KONG — Hackers stole account information of more than 360,000 of Citigroup Inc.’s U.S. credit card customers in a recent data breach, the bank said Wednesday, almost double the number initially thought.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Today's News Highlights 06.15.11

TODAY'S HIGHLIGHTS
A tough mission in Afghanistan 
A low-key Marine, Gen. John R. Allen, is set to take over the war at high-stakes moment.
(By Craig Whitlock) 

Nuclear waste dump is mired in inertia 
Yucca Mountain is a case study in government dysfunction and bureaucratic inertia. The project dates back three decades. It has not solved the problem of nuclear waste.
(By Joel Achenbach and Brian Vastag) 

Bachmann basks in newfound momentum 
Rep. Michele Bachmann enjoyed a day of fundraising, media exposure and glowing analysis of her newfound momentum on Tuesday, following a strong presidential debate performance.
(By Amy Gardner and Sandhya Somashekhar) 

States seeking to save on Medicaid 
Republican governors step up their resistance to rules requiring states to maintain current levels of health-care coverage for the poor and disabled under Medicaid.
(By Michael A. Fletcher) 

Graduating from elementary school? 
Dozens of elementary students in the D.C. area are celebrating what some critics call graduation inflation, the growth of ceremonies to mark the end of elementary school. 
(By Steve Hendrix) 

POLITICS 
Ambassador post blocked as US adoptive families fight for release of Vietnamese orphans 
HANOI, Vietnam — Marsha Sailors painted the nursery pink and green at her Missouri home, put up princess pictures and built a crib for her new little girl. They hadn’t yet met, but she already was in love with the smiling 6-month-old in a photo sent from Vietnam. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

Detainee who provided key information about bin Laden courier rejoins al-Qaida 
WASHINGTON — The terrorist described as the linchpin in the hunt for Osama bin Laden has rejoined al-Qaida after the Bush administration released him from a secret CIA secret prison under pressure from Pakistan, according to former and current U.S. intelligence officials. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

House Democrats hoping pressure from colleagues and wife's return will prod Weiner to resign 
WASHINGTON — House Democratic colleagues of scandal-scarred Rep. Anthony Weiner are looking for him to step down this week amid a growing chorus for him to resign. Even President Barack Obama has suggested he should leave. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

Detainee who provided key information about bin Laden courier rejoins al-Qaida 
WASHINGTON — The terrorist described as the linchpin in the hunt for Osama bin Laden has rejoined al-Qaida after the Bush administration released him from a secret CIA secret prison under pressure from Pakistan, according to former and current U.S. intelligence officials. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

New era sees more, bigger wildfires, echoing blazes a century ago as control policies change 
WASHINGTON — The fires searing parts of the West are an eerie echo of the past, a frightening reminder of a once terrible danger that had been held largely at bay for decades. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

---

STYLE 
Group lists Coltrane house, Chicago hospital among endangered sites; Charleston on watch list 
WASHINGTON — Jazz musician John Coltrane’s home on Long Island, N.Y., a cloverleaf-shaped Chicago hospital building and a Pillsbury plant in Minneapolis that once was the world’s most advanced flour mill are among America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

Ask Amy: Military couple failing basic training 
A military couple who live in separate states, decided to set up joint checking and savings accounts to strengthen their bond. Alas, one side didn’t practice complete transparency. 
(, Tribune Media Service) 

Hints From Heloise: A change in dishwasher detergent 
After years of using the same dishwasher and the same detergent, a white film developed on a baffled reader’s dishes. 
(, King) 

Carolyn Hax: The ‘other woman’ first needs to face the truth 
She’s in love with a guy who’s seeing someone else. He won’t take her out in public and bad-mouths the woman he’s with. Ditch him? Well . . . 
(, The Washington Post) 

U.S., Russian actors connect without words 
President Obama’s reset of relations with Russia takes center stage, this time with California students in a Moscow theater. 
( by Kathy Lally , The Washington Post) 

---

SPORTS 
Defending champion Serena Williams seeded No. 8 at Wimbledon; Nadal and Wozniacki both No. 1 
WIMBLEDON, England — Defending champion Serena Williams was seeded No. 8 for Wimbledon on Wednesday and will avoid playing the highest-ranked players until at least the quarterfinals. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

JOC president Takeda says Tokyo nearing a decision on whether to bid for 2020 Olympics 
TOKYO — Japanese Olympic officials expect to know within weeks if Tokyo will bid for the 2020 Summer Olympics. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

Tuesday's Sports In Brief 
NEW YORK — An end to the NFL lockout might not be imminent, but it does appears much closer than at any point in the last three months. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

Singaporean faces 20 years in prison after being charged in Malaysia for match-fixing 
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Malaysian prosecutors have charged a Singaporean man with match-fixing at a youth football tournament. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

Earning spot in Gold Cup quarterfinals with sloppy 1-0 victory can't disguise US problems 
Less than a year after Spain won the World Cup, it’s already time to kick off qualifying for the 2014 tournament in Brazil. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

---

WORLD 
South Korea's capital turns ex-military command with painful past into modern art museum 
SEOUL, South Korea — South Korea is trying to make peace with its painful past by turning a building once allegedly used as a torture center into a modern art museum. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

New flooding kills 7, leaves 7 others missing in China as torrential rains continue 
BEIJING — More flooding in central and south China has killed another seven people over the past three days, the government said Wednesday, as the country continued to be battered by seasonal rainstorms. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

Former Bahrain editor claims outside plot to plant false stories 
MANAMA, Bahrain — The former chief editor of Bahrain’s main independent newspaper says he has evidence of an apparent effort to plant false news stories during Shiite-led protests for greater rights in the Gulf island kingdom. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

Attack on Afghan governor’s office kills 8 
MAIDAN SHAR, Afghanistan — A suicide bomber killed eight people and wounded four in a strike Wednesday on the governor’s office in a northeastern province, while a mortar targeted a building where NATO and Afghan officials were attending the inauguration of the country’s largest police training center in central Afghanistan. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

Putin says Russia's economy has two-thirds recovered from global financial crisis 
GENEVA — Russia’s prime minister says his nation’s economy remains well below the level it was at before the global financial crisis. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

---

LIVE DISCUSSIONS 
Parenting advice: Help for raising children of all ages 
Family Almanac columnist Marguerite Kelly discusses the ups and downs of parenting, and tips for helping children through challenging times. 
(, vForum) 

Tuesdays with Moron: Chatological Humor Update 
Gene Weingarten brings you an update to his monthly Chatological Humor live chat. 
(, vForum) 

D.C.'s biggest stories: Lunchline's Clinton Yates breaks them down (Video) 
Clinton Yates a news junkie and pop culture fanatic who scours The Washington Post and its partner sites every weekday to find the gems that you want to read but don't have time to search for. 
(, vForum) 

Real Wheels Live 
Live online discussion with Real Wheels columnist Warren Brown about car-buying and the auto industry.
(, vForum) 

Campus Overload Live with Jenna Johnson 
Jenna Johnson answers your questions about college life, on and off campus. 
(, vForum) 

---

TECHNOLOGY 
Crowd-Source Your Night In The City With The AreaNow iPhone App (TCTV) 

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com) 

Exposed: Facebook’s Secret iPhone Photo Sharing App (Which Looks Amazing) 

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com) 

Could Efficiency 2.0 Eclipse Solar? CEO Tom Scarmellino Thinks So (TCTV) 

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com) 

On BizSpark And Bubbles: Q&A With Microsoft VP Dan’l Lewin (Video) 

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com) 

Internet radio service Pandora delivers latest IPO hit as strong demand drives shares to $16 
SAN FRANCISCO — Pandora Media Inc. sold its initial public offering of stock at $16 per share late Tuesday, fetching twice as much as the popular but unprofitable Internet radio service expected less than two weeks ago. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

---

BUSINESS 
Crowd-Source Your Night In The City With The AreaNow iPhone App (TCTV) 

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com) 

Oil falls below $99 in Asia as traders eye mixed signs on US economy 
SIGNAPORE — Oil prices fell below $99 a barrel Wednesday in Asia as traders eyed mixed signs about the strength of the U.S. economy and crude demand. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

World stock markets down as investors anticipate rate hikes in India, China 
BANGKOK — World stock markets mostly slipped Wednesday as investors anticipated growth-denting rate hikes by central banks in India and China to contain stubbornly high inflation. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

UK unemployment rate holds steady at 7.7 percent as wage growth remains moderate 
LONDON — Official data show Britain’s unemployment rate held steady at 7.7 percent in the three months ending April, matching the rate reported a month ago. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

UK government to back proposals to separate banks 
LONDON — The British government intends to force banks to insulate their retail operations from their more volatile investment banking, a Treasury source confirmed Wednesday. 
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP) 

Today's News Highlights 06.10.11

TODAY'S HIGHLIGHTS
Newt Gingrich’s 2012 campaign implodes
Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich’s presidential campaign imploded Thursday afternoon with virtually his entire senior staff leaving en masse, according to multiple sources familiar with the moves.
(By Chris Cillizza and Karen Tumulty)

Romney will skip Iowa straw poll in August
Former Massachusetts governor, widely regarded as the front-runner in the GOP presidential race, has decided not to participate in this year’s Iowa straw poll nor any other early tests in advance of the 2012 primaries and caucuses, his campaign announced Thursday night.
(By Philip Rucker and Chris Cillizza)

Ex-NSA official Thomas Drake pleads guilty to misdemeanor
The plea brings an end to a troubled prosecution that was one of the Obama administration's most prominent efforts to punish accused leakers of classified information.
(By Ellen Nakashima)

Senate legislation may slow, but quorums continue
The old ritual of calling senators to the Senate floor to bide time, “quorum calls,” has increased dramatically. Meanwhile, the amount of legislative business the body conducts is down.
(By David A. Fahrenthold)

An embassy-in-exile
American diplomats who evacuated from Libya are still working — in a makeshift mission at the State Department.
(By Mary Beth Sheridan)

POLITICS
Americans, Africans debate future of program that links trade opportunities to good government
LUSAKA, Zambia — Americans and Africans are debating the future of a program that links trade opportunities to with the U.S. to good government.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Alaska set to release emails from Palin's time as governor as she considers White House run
JUNEAU, Alaska — The nation is about to get a new look at Sarah Palin’s tenure as Alaska governor.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Citigroup credit card data taken from 200,000 customers in latest hack of major company
NEW YORK — Citigroup Inc. has become the latest victim in a string of high-profile data thefts by hackers targeting some of the world’s best-known companies.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Not even summer yet: Heat grips half the country; scientists say sign of things to come
WASHINGTON — Public schools in Philadelphia and parts of New Jersey and Maryland cut their days short, worried about students sweltering in temperatures in the 90s.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Redistricting stalemate in Virginia
The GOP-controlled Virginia House of Delegates and the Democratic-led state Senate approved conflicting plans for redistricting.
( by Rosalind S. Helderman , The Washington Post)

---

STYLE
In wake of staff walkout, questions abound about Newt Gingrich's viability in White House race
ATLANTA — Rocked by the stunning walkout of his entire senior campaign brain trust, Newt Gingrich is nonetheless vowing to remain in the race for president.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Is age the only thing keeping them apart?
A reader wonders why she can’t get to the next level with a guy 13 years her senior.
(, The Washington Post)

Ask Amy: Learning the truth about the past
I come from a very large family — eight sisters and three brothers. By the time I was 8, my father and mother had both died. I went to live with my oldest sister (also the oldest child in the family) and her husband and his son.
(, Tribune Media Service)

Hints From Heloise: Sanitizing a spa tub
I am requesting a suggestion for deep-cleaning or sanitizing my spa tub. I’ve just cleaned it and scrubbed the jets with an old toothbrush. I want to be certain that all bacteria is gone so I can feel good about getting in my spa tub.
(, King)

Music review: ‘Juggler in Paradise’ at NSO
Christoph Eschenbach conducts the emphatic work’s American premiere in his last program of his first season.
( by Anne Midgette , The Washington Post)

---

SPORTS
Thursday's Sports In Brief
OSLO, Norway — Usain Bolt ran the fastest time in the world this season as he eased to victory in the 200 meters at a Diamond League meet, while Caster Semenya finished third behind Halima Hachlaf in the 800 meters.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Softball, baseball considering joint Olympic pitch for 2020 reinstatement effort
OKLAHOMA CITY — The sport of softball could be facing an identity crisis.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Mathis matches best PGA round for 1st lead on tour with 5-under 65 after 1st round at St. Jude
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — David Mathis certainly took the long way around to grabbing the first PGA Tour lead of his career.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Already connections for the four new men's basketball coaches in the Big 12 Conference
Before they became new Big 12 head basketball coaches, Missouri’s Frank Haith and Texas A&M’s Billy Kennedy had already known each other nearly two decades.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Alex Smith 'absolutely' expects to be 49ers starting QB, says there's no beef with Crabtree
SAN JOSE, Calif. — Alex Smith finds it awkward that a free agent quarterback is organizing the San Francisco 49ers workouts during the NFL lockout.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

---

WORLD
Vietnam announces naval live fire drill as South China Sea dispute with China heats up
HANOI, Vietnam — A squabble over territory in the South China Sea escalated Friday when Vietnam announced a live ammunition drill in an apparent reponse to China’s demand that the Vietnamese halt all oil exploration in the area.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Gates says NATO has a ‘dim’ future
BRUSSELS — America’s military alliance with Europe — the cornerstone of U.S. security policy for six decades — faces a “dim, if not dismal” future, U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Friday in a blunt valedictory address.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Japan government says tsunami survivors need long-term mental care to prevent suicide
TOKYO — Survivors of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami need long-term mental health care to protect them from debilitating conditions that could lead to suicide, Japan’s government said Friday.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Karzai arrives in Pakistan for reconciliation talks
Afghan President Hamid Karzai arrived in Islamabad Friday for talks with top Pakistani leaders amid cautious hopes that the two nations can forge a coordinated strategy for reconciling with insurgents.
( by Griff Witte and Pamela Constable , The Washington Post)

German disease control center says cause of E. coli outbreak locally-grown vegetable sprouts
BERLIN — Investigators have determined that locally grown vegetable sprouts are the cause of the European E. coli outbreak that has killed 29 and sickened nearly 3,000, the head of Germany’s national disease control center said Friday.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

---

LIVE DISCUSSIONS
We're having a heatwave: The Weather Gang Lab with Jason Samenow (Video)
Capital Weather Gang's Jason Samenow digs into this week's big weather story. Join the chat to find out what will happen -- and why.
(, vForum)

Palin vs. Bachmann, 2012 Elections and more: The Live Fix with Chris Cillizza
Get your Friday Live Fix as Chris Cillizza discusses Mitt Romney's Presidential candidacy, Weinergate, the Worst Week in Washington, and all the latest political news.
(, vForum)

Weiner's confession and Palin's emails: Dana Milbank Live
Dana Milbank answers your questions about politics and his columns and judges your "Etch-a-Sketch" submissions.
(, vForum)

Carolyn Hax Live: Advice columnist tackles your problems (Friday, June 17)
Advice Columnist Carolyn Hax takes your questions and comments about the strange train we call life.
(, vForum)

Carolyn Hax Live
Advice Columnist Carolyn Hax takes your questions and comments about the strange train we call life.
(, vForum)

---

TECHNOLOGY
Lipdub? No. Founders Forum Re-creates Bond Movie Featuring Europe’s Startup Stars

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Groupon Was “The Single Worst Decision I Have Ever Made As A Business Owner”

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Citigroup says hackers accessed credit card data of some North American customers
HONG KONG — Citigroup Inc. said Thursday that hackers have accessed the credit card information of tens of thousands of its North American customers.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Apple Just Handed Twitter The Keys To The iOS Kingdom — Here’s Twitter’s Take

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Interview: Martin Rae, President Of The Academy Of Interactive Arts And Sciences

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

---

BUSINESS
World stock markets mostly down on concerns global growth is slowing
BANGKOK — World stock markets moved lower Friday over concerns global economic growth is slowing, despite news of a narrower U.S. trade deficit that sent Wall Street up after a weeklong slump.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Probe finds that NRC head manipulated information to make case for closing proposed nuke dump
WASHINGTON — While he apparently broke no laws, the head of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission withheld and manipulated information to make the case for shutting down the proposed radioactive waste dump at Yucca Mountain in Nevada, according to an internal investigation.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Dutch government, unions, employers agree to increase retirement age to 67
THE HAGUE, Netherlands — The Dutch government says it has brokered a new pact with unions and employers to lift the retirement age to 67 to ease the financial burden of a graying population and rising life expectancy.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Lipdub? No. Founders Forum Re-creates Bond Movie Featuring Europe’s Startup Stars

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

British industrial production slides 1.7 percent in April, far worse than forecast
LONDON — Industrial production in Britain plunged by 1.7 percent in April, far worse than expected and partly due to disruptions caused by the extra public holiday for the Royal Wedding, according to official figures published Friday.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Morning News 06.06.11

TODAY'S HIGHLIGHTS
Yemen’s Saleh flies to Saudi Arabia
President Ali Abdullah Saleh’s departure raised the prospect that a key U.S. ally in the fight against al-Qaeda had lost his grip on a nation tumbling into chaos.
(By Ernesto Londono and Sudarsan Raghavan)

Redesigning Metro’s map
Lance Wyman, the creator of the transit system’s colorful map, has the challenge of redesigning the map more than three decades later.
(By Dana Hedgpeth)

Wireless Net access, GPS on collision course
Two of 21st-century America’s favorite gadgets — the smartphone and the GPS device — are on a collision course, according to a report delivered Friday to the FAA.
(By Ashley Halsey III)

Housing bust still hurts in Fla.
Once a booming area, Flagler County, Fla., illustrates the problem President Obama faces in politically pivotal places hit hardest by the recession.
(By Michael A. Fletcher)

Egyptians say economy is top concern
A U.S. government-funded poll finds most Egyptians say they backed the revolution because of their economic difficulties, not a lack of democracy.
(By Mary Beth Sheridan)

POLITICS
AP Interview: Huntsman's not yet in 2012 White House race, but he's mapping campaign strategy
NORTH CONWAY, N.H. — Toeing the 2012 line, former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman sounded like a full-fledged White House candidate Saturday set to join the field this month as he mapped out a campaign strategy that bypasses early-voting Iowa to focus on New Hampshire, South Carolina and Florida.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Lawrence Eagleburger, career foreign service officer who rose to secretary of state, dies
WASHINGTON — Lawrence S. Eagleburger, the only career foreign service officer to rise to the position of secretary of state, died Saturday, according to two of his one-time bosses, former President George H.W. Bush and former Secretary of State James A. Baker III.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Cut the costs, cache the cash
A new cost-cutting effort by Montgomery County is encouraging employees to come up with ways to save taxpayers money.
( by Michael Laris , The Washington Post)

Sulaimon Brown shows money orders
The former D.C. mayoral candidate says they were given to him by Howard Brooks as part of payments he says he received to disparage Mayor Fenty during the campaign.
( by Nikita Stewart , The Washington Post)

Waiting for the promise of high-speed rail
Critics say Virginia Gov. Robert F. McDonnell missed an opportunity when his administration decided not to apply for federal funds.
( by Anita Kumar , The Washington Post)

---

STYLE
Miss Manners: Overwhelmed by photo requests
I seem to be the only person in the last several years who has taken a camera to parties, family gatherings, school plays, etc.Afterward and sometimes during the event, I am asked to take pictures and “send” them to several people.
(, United Media)

Ask Amy: This mom has had it with gift tradition
Dear Amy:How can I (or should I?) tactfully end obligatory gift-giving among relatives who barely know one another? I suggested a couple of times that we end this tradition, but it was poorly received each time.
(, Tribune Media Service)

Carolyn Hax: Can she get over husband’s ‘emotional affair’?
Last month I found out that my husband of four decades had an “emotional affair” for the past year.
(, The Washington Post)

Honduras, on the rise
The view from Honduras’s Lenca Trail is of a country back on the right path.
( by Nancy Trejos , The Washington Post)

Terrific summer toys for outdoors and on the go
Here are some great toys to make playing outdoors more fun this summer, along with five fun games to take along on vacation.
(, The Washington Post)

---

SPORTS
Marcos Mondaini scores in 70th minute, Chivas USA beats expansion Timbers 1-0
CARSON, Calif. — Marcos Mondaini scored in the 70th minute off a pass from Paulo Nagamura and Chivas USA won for the second time this year at home, beating the expansion Portland Timbers 1-0 on Saturday night.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Asia hails Li Na's French Open win, China urges others to follow her example
BEIJING — Li Na’s landmark French Open victory sparked celebrations and recognition throughout Asia on Sunday, while China’s state media told its athletes to learn from her as they prepare for the London Olympics.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Josh Parr had 3 RBIs, Illinois eliminates Kansas State 5-3 in Fullerton Regional
FULLERTON, Calif. — No. 9 hitter Josh Parr had a two-run triple and an RBI double to help Big Ten champion Illinois beat Kansas State 5-3 on Saturday in an elimination game in the NCAA Fullerton Regional.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Florida, Baylor join Tide, Sun Devils in Women's College World Series semis
OKLAHOMA CITY — With Whitney Canion putting an endless line of zeros on the scoreboard and unlikely heroes providing extra-inning homers, the Baylor Bears are getting just enough to stay alive in the Women’s College World Series.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

NCAA Tournament Capsules
AUSTIN, Texas — David Lyon hit a grand slam to key Kent State’s six-run sixth inning and the Golden Thrashers stunned Texas 7-5 in the Austin Regional on Saturday night.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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WORLD
Defense chief Gates meets with US troops in farewell tour of Afghan war zone
FORWARD OPERATING BASE WALTON, Afghanistan — U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates expressed his concern about pulling troops out of Afghanistan too soon as he embarked Sunday on two days of farewell visits to remote U.S. bases in this war-weary country.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Syrian television reports 2 killed, 5 wounded in Israeli gunfire along the border
BEIRUT — Syrian television reports 2 killed, 5 wounded in Israeli gunfire along the border.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

NATO jets target military barracks in Tripoli, following on from first helicopter strikes
TRIPOLI, Libya — British jets hit a military barracks in the Libyan capital early Sunday, further intensifying NATO pressure on Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi nearly four months into an uprising to end his erratic 42-year rule.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Pope denounces 'disintegration' of family in Europe, urges couples to marry, not live together
ZAGREB, Croatia — Pope Benedict XVI denounced the “disintegration” of family life in Europe on Sunday and called for couples to make a commitment to marry, not just live together, as he reaffirmed traditional Catholic family values during his second and final day in Croatia.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Qatar bans imports of cucumber, tomato, lettuce from Germany and Spain over E. coli outbreak
BERLIN — The Gulf nation of Qatar has temporarily banned imports of fresh cucumbers, tomatoes and lettuces from Spain and Germany because of concerns about a deadly strain of E. coli.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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LIVE DISCUSSIONS
Recovering from the 2011 Post Hunt
The Washington Post Hunt is a game of brainteasers, humor, puzzles and family fun dreamed up by Dave Barry, Gene Weingarten and Tom Shroder. The 2011 Post Hunt is set for June 5 in downtown Washington, D.C.
(, vForum)

Outlook: Are 'SlutWalk' protests the future of feminism?
Author Jessica Valenti will be online Monday June 6 at 2 p.m. ET to chat about her recent Outlook piece "SlutWalks and the future of feminism."
(, vForum)

The 2011 Post Hunt: Are you ready?
The Washington Post Hunt is a game of brainteasers, humor, puzzles and family fun dreamed up by Dave Barry, Gene Weingarten and Tom Shroder. The 2011 Post Hunt is set for June 5 in downtown Washington, D.C.
(, vForum)

Carolyn Hax Live: Advice columnist tackles your problems (Thursday, June 9)
Advice Columnist Carolyn Hax takes your questions and comments about the strange train we call life.
(, vForum)

Over-harrumphing, pregnant teens, quadruple weddings, and more: Carolyn Hax Live
Advice Columnist Carolyn Hax takes your questions and comments about the strange train we call life.
(, vForum)

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TECHNOLOGY
A TechCrunch Disrupt Proposal

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

When Facebook Captured Beluga, They May Have Harpooned It In The Head

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Hornik on VC’s Secondary Mania: “If It’s Just Money, We’re All Fungible” (TCTV)

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Why The Groupon IPO Feels Like A Swindle

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

OMG/JK: iCloud, gWallet, and tPhotos

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

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BUSINESS
Economically struggling Belarus to get $3 bln Russia-led loan in exchange for privatizations
MOSCOW — The financially struggling former Soviet republic of Belarus is to receive a $3 billion loan from a Russia-dominated group in exchange for privatizing a large chunk of its state-controlled economy.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Oil storage tank attacked in southern Iraq, officials say
BASRA — Iraqi officials say an oil storage tank has been attacked in the southern province of Basra.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Nintendo says it was targeted in recent online data attack, reports no data loss
TOKYO — Nintendo was targeted in a recent online data attack, but no personal or company information was lost, the Japanese maker of the Wii game console said Sunday.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

US agency allows restart of Canadian oil pipeline; oil flow could resume as soon as Sunday
WASHINGTON — U.S. regulators have allowed a Canadian company to restart its Keystone oil pipeline after completing repairs and safety tests.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

A TechCrunch Disrupt Proposal 

America's Pink Slip Capitals

The number of mass layoffs in the U.S. was down 26% in the first quarter compared to a year ago. But the news isn't good everywhere.

The unemployment report released this month by the Bureau of Labor Statistics was filled with good news. While the national unemployment rate ticked up to 9%, which was the highest since January, the economy added 244,000 jobs in April, a sure sign of Spring for the country's workforce.

Now, there is still more positive news on the labor front. The BLS released another report last week that disclosed the number of mass layoffs (50 employees or more) was down 26% in the first quarter compared to a year ago. There were 1,393 major job cutbacks across the U.S. affecting 190,389 employees. This marked the sixth straight quarter of declining layoffs.

But while it is good news that layoffs are down, they are coming off historical highs. And some people are still being hit hard. Who? To find out we looked at which metro areas had the most employees affected by mass layoffs in the first quarter of this year. Separation had to be more than 30 days to qualify in order to exclude temporary furloughs.

Leading the way is the Los Angeles metro area where 17,393 workers lost their jobs as part of major layoffs in the first three months of the year. Few industries were spared in southern California as the entire state continues to struggle with the economic downturn coupled with high taxes and a strict regulatory environment. UnitedHealthcare, Wells Fargo ( WFC - news - people ) and Teva Pharmaceutical all announced layoffs in the Los Angeles area during the first quarter. Beverly Hills-based MySpace announced in January that it would reduce its workforce by 47% affecting 500 employees. MySpace was the most popular social-networking site in the U.S. until 2008, but has been put up for sale by News Corp., which purchased the company in 2005 for $580 million. News Corp is reportedly looking for $100 million in the sale.

One of the biggest rounds of job losses came from Boeing ( BA - news - people ) which announced plans to eliminate 1,100 jobs by the end of 2012 as it cuts production of its C-17 Globemaster III airlifter. Approximately 900 of those job losses will occur at the final assembly site located in Long Beach, Calif., 20 miles south of downtown L.A. Boeing promises to provide assistance to workers seeking jobs elsewhere within the $64 billion-in-sales aerospace giant.

In February videogame maker Activision ( ATVI - news - people ) said it would discontinue its popular Guitar Hero franchise. The decision cost 500 employees their jobs, which represents 7% of the company's workforce. Employees at studios in both Los Angeles and the Bay Area were affected by the move.

California is well represented on our list of the areas with the most layoffs as four other cities made the list including: San Francisco (No. 4), Riverside (No. 5), San Diego (No. 6) and Sacramento (No. 9). California leads the way among the 50 states with 390 layoffs statewide which affected 48,497 employees. That is three times more than any other state.

Big metro areas dominate our list as these are the locales that have sizable employers that lay off 50 or more employees at a time. As the economy has stabilized, massive layoffs are down significantly. Only 2.8% of the layoff events in the first quarter involved 500 or more employees which is the lowest percentage since BLS started tracking this data in 1995.

BLS tracks mass layoff data by surveying employers. Some of the other numbers in the report offer more hope about the economy. Of the firms that laid off employees in the first quarter, 49% expect to hire back at least some of the laid-off workers. This is the highest first-quarter percentage since 2005 and up from 38% last year.

The hard hit manufacturing sector got some good news and a certain level of stability. The 34,077 manufacturing jobs lost through layoffs was the lowest quarterly total since at least 1995 when BLS started compiling these figures. SOURCE OF THIS STORY

Slide Show: America's Pink-Slip Capitals

Huge Twist in Cell Tower Wars: Tax Accounting Issues from the SEC (AMT, CCI, SBAC)

American Tower Corporation (NYSE: AMT) and Crown Castle International Corp. (NYSE: CCI) are the two major players in the world of cellphone towers. Go ahead and include 4G too. This morning is not looking very promising for American Tower after it filed an 8-K disclosure with the SEC that disclosed an SEC inquiry. We would have normally issued “The Mr. Dumas Accounting Award” to American Tower but the disclosure offers such little disclosure and detail that there is no way to know what it really means. What is odd is how small the disclosure was. American Tower stated: On June 2, 2011, American Tower Corporation received a subpoena from the United States Securities and Exchange Commission requesting certain documents from 2007 through the present, including in particular documents related to the Company’s tax accounting and reporting. The Company intends to cooperate fully with the SEC with respect to its request. Shares of American Tower are down 6.2% at $51.02 on more than 1 million shares in less than the first five minutes of trading. The 52-week trading range is $41.26 to $56.84 and the consensus Thomson Reuters price target is just above $60.00. Analysts are likely to be out with downgrades or with “temporary exceptions” in the research coverage. Unfortunately, the time frame is wide enough and the disclosure is vague enough that no one outside of the company will yet be able to make determinations or opinions. Shares of rival Crown Castle are down a bit in sympathy with a drop of just over 1.5% at $40.95. The smaller player is SBA Communications Corp. (NASDAQ: SBAC) and its shares are down 1.5% at $38.19. American Tower is now worth about $20 billion after the haircut in its market cap, while Crown Castle’s market cap is almost $12 billion. SBA Communications has a market cap of only about $4 billion. There is an old rule of thumb that many investors heed. When accounting irregularities or large accounting questions arise, look for opportunity elsewhere. American Tower shares were down over 8% pre-market… Even after about 20 years of reading news releases and financial statements, it is amazing how so few words can have such a big impact.

May unemployment rate up to 9.1%; employers add just 54,000 to payrolls

The nation's job market took a turn for the worse last month as employers sharply pulled back their hiring and the unemployment rate edged up to 9.1%, the Labor Department said Friday.

The discouraging report provided the latest and strongest evidence of a sputtering economic recovery. In recent days, various data have pointed to a slowdown in manufacturing and consumer spending, as well as persistent weakness in the depressed housing market.

Employers in May added just 54,000 to their payrolls, less than half of what’s needed just to keep pace with the expanding working-age population. The measly job growth came after three straight months of solid job increases that averaged 220,000 a month.

Manufacturing, which had been leading the recovery, fell back in May, losing 5,000 jobs. Apart from healthcare and some professional services, notably accounting and computer systems work, there was little or no net job gain in other service-producing sectors of the economy. And local government continued to be a drag on the economy, shedding 28,000 jobs.

The jobless rate, after steadily declining during the winter, rose for the second straight month. Unemployment was 9% in April and 9.6% in May of last year.

There were indications that some of the economic weakness was due to temporary factors. Supply-chain disruptions stemming from Japan's earthquake and tsunami in March most likely contributed to a loss of 3,400 in auto-manufacturing employment last month. Higher fuel prices, although easing a bit in recent weeks, also may have played a role in restraining hiring by retailers and restaurants, among other businesses.

For all employees on private-sector payrolls last month, which numbered about 131 million, hourly earnings averaged $22.98. That was up 41 cents from a year ago -- or 1.8%, which is below the current pace of inflation. 

The number of officially unemployed held steady at about 13.9 million last month, but the share of those who have been without work for six months or more, the so-called long-term unemployed, jumped to 45.1%.

In addition, the ranks of part-time workers who said they couldn't find full-time jobs stood at 8.5 million last month. And there were 822,000 discouraged workers who have stopped looking for jobs because they saw little hope of getting hired. Taken together, the percent of unemployed and underemployed was 15.8% in May, compared to 15.9% in the prior month.

Most analysts still expect the economy to pick up from the sluggish pace of growth in the first half of this year, but many have recently marked down their expectations for economic and job growth for the remainder of the year. Forecasters at Moody's Analytics, a leading research firm, now see employers adding fewer than 200,000 jobs a month for the rest of this year, a pace that would barely make a dent in the high unemployment rate.

California unemployment edges below 12%

Positive signs in an anemic U.S. recovery

 U.S. manufacturing attempts a high-tech comeback

 

Morning News 05.27.11

TODAY'S HIGHLIGHTS
CIA to search bin Laden compound
The arrangement would allow the CIA for the first time to enter a complex that it had previously scrutinized only from a distance.
(By Greg Miller and Karen DeYoung)

Serbia arrests Ratko Mladic on war crimes charges
Ratko Mladic, the former Bosnian Serb general charged with orchestrating the largest mass killing of civilians in Europe since World War II, was arrested Thursday in Serbia, ending a nearly 16-year manhunt.
(By Colum Lynch)

Chinese Communist Party focuses on its history
A new official history of the Chinese Communist Party ventures into treacherous territory from a tumultuous past.
(By Andrew Higgins)

Online letters claim innocence in Md. slaying
An interest in yoga brought a businessman-poet and AU professor together. Now he’s accused in her death. In online letters, the man — believed to be in Mexico — says he’s not guilty.
(By Dan Morse)

Mitt Romney launching campaign on June 2
Former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney will formally announce his presidential campaign next Thursday, June 2, in New Hampshire.
(By Chris Cillizza and Rachel Weiner)

POLITICS
Obama signs Patriot Act extension; will continue anti-terror surveillance powers
WASHINGTON — Congress on Thursday passed a four-year extension of post-Sept. 11 powers to search records and conduct roving wiretaps in pursuit of terrorists. Votes taken in rapid succession in the Senate and House came after lawmakers rejected attempts to temper the law enforcement powers to ensure that individual liberties are not abused.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Congress passes four-year extension of roving wiretaps, other government anti-terrorism powers
WASHINGTON — Congress passes four-year extension of roving wiretaps, other government anti-terrorism powers
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Congress approves extension of Patriot Act provisions
Racing against the clock, Congress passed an extension to key provisions of the USA Patriot Act that allow investigators to keep using aggressive surveillance tactics.
( by Paul Kane and Felicia Sonmez , The Washington Post)

Gingrich casts self as ‘comeback kid’
The roughly 600 people who came to see Newt Gingrich during his two-day campaign swing through New Hampshire were largely uninterested in his purchases at Tiffany & Co.
( by Nia-Malika Henderson and Dan Eggen , The Washington Post)

Romney to announce presidential bid next Thursday in New Hampshire
WASHINGTON — Mitt Romney said Thursday he planned to formally join the GOP race for president during an appearance next week in New Hampshire, a state that is central to his White House strategy.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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STYLE
29 million tune into ‘Idol’ finale
About 29 million people watched Fox’s “American Idol” finale Wednesday, when Scotty McCreery was crowned the winner.
(, The Washington Post)

Spaceport America taking shape, officials renew commitment to commercial space industry
SPACEPORT AMERICA, N.M. — The wind is still whistling through the massive unfinished steel hangar doors at Spaceport America. The exterior is waiting to be clad with custom metal panels, and the hangar floor, where a pair of sleek spacecraft will one day sit, is still dirt.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Wildwoods are top NJ beaches again; Cape May County takes 5 of top 10 spots
WILDWOOD, N.J. — Need more proof that New Jerseyans hate having to pay for beach badges?
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

New Mexico's Gila Cliff Dwellings and campgrounds reopening for holiday weekend
SILVER CITY, N.M. — The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument and the Gila National Forest campgrounds are reopening for the Memorial Day weekend.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Paul and the Other Paul
The most memorable moment of Paul Simon’s concert comes with the star attraction happily observing.
( by David Malitz , The Washington Post)

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SPORTS
Tillman’s tactics help Terps
The Final Four-bound Maryland men’s lacrosse team has responded to first-year Coach John Tillman’s team-building techniques.
( by Christian Swezey , The Washington Post)

Luke Donald opens with 64, leads Lee Westwood by 8 shots in battle for No. 1 at Wentworth
VIRGINIA WATER, England — Luke Donald shot a 7-under 64 on Thursday to take the lead in the suspended first round of the BMW PGA Championship, leaving him eight stroke ahead of No. 1 Lee Westwood in their battle for the top spot in the world ranking.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Pay to play? Hunter-Reay's deal to drive No. 41 for Foyt shows role sponsors play in IndyCar
INDIANAPOLIS — Ryan Hunter-Reay and Marco Andretti watched the number of Indianapolis 500 qualifying spots dwindle in the final minutes of Bump Day last weekend, and the Andretti Autosport teammates knew one of them could end up knocking the other out of the race.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

AL Capsules
DETROIT — Jacoby Ellsbury hit a three-run homer in a five-run second inning, and the hot-hitting Boston Red Sox went on to rout the Detroit Tigers 14-1 in an eight-inning, rain-shortened game Thursday.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Danica has been Indy's saving grace, but time for the open-wheelers to stand on their own
INDIANAPOLIS — Danica Patrick was holding court at the Brickyard and, as always, no one had more reporters crowded around them.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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WORLD
Rights group says extrajudicial killings by Venezuela's police officers escalating
CARACAS, Venezuela — Unjustified killings by police officers are escalating and occurring across Venezuela, a human rights group charged Thursday.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Libya calls for cease-fire
Prime minister’s offer stops short of saying all military personnel would be returned to barracks
( by Michael Birnbaum , The Washington Post)

British government puts Apache helicopters at NATO's disposal
LONDON — The British government has given clearance for the use of its attack helicopters in Libya, putting the final decision on deployment in NATO’s hands.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Scientists claim they've found farthest-ever explosion more than 13 billion light years away
LONDON — A group of researchers claim they’ve found the most distant explosion ever detected, a pulse of high energy radiation sent by a disintegrating star near the very edge of the observable universe.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Under intense international pressure, Libyan premier says he's ready to talk with rebels
TRIPOLI, Libya — Libya’s government pushed a cease-fire proposal Thursday and said for the first time it was prepared to speak with its rebel adversaries, signaling that months of fighting and NATO bombardment may be closer to forcing some concessions.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

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LIVE DISCUSSIONS
Goodbye Oprah, hello Scotty, and congrats Hines Ward: Lisa de Moraes' TV Column
Post TV columnist Lisa de Moraes will be chatting about Oprah Winfrey's final three episodes of her popular TV show.
(, vForum)

Sports talk with David Sheinin
Usually Tracee Hamilton goes weekly with her chat about sports, life and everything else. This week David Sheinin will be subbing in for her.
(, vForum)

Campus Overload Live with Jenna Johnson
Jenna Johnson answers your questions about college life, on and off campus.
(, vForum)

Lisa de Moraes on the TV Column
Post TV columnist Lisa de Moraes is back and ready to chat about all the drama, comedy and heartbreak of the world of television -- both onscreen and behind-the-scenes!
(, vForum)

Carolyn Hax Live: Advice columnist tackles your problems (Friday, June 3)
Advice Columnist Carolyn Hax takes your questions and comments about the strange train we call life.
(, vForum)

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TECHNOLOGY
Facebook hires 2 former Bush aides as lobbyists, stepping up efforts to friend Washington
NEW YORK — Facebook said Thursday that it hired two aides of former President George W. Bush as lobbyists. The world’s largest online social network is stepping up efforts to friend Washington as it grows.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

EcoMotors Chief Don Runkle: “Electric Vehicles Are Not Zero Emissions”

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Facebook hires 2 former Bush aides as lobbyists, stepping up efforts to friend Washington
NEW YORK — Facebook is hiring two aides of former President George W. Bush as lobbyists. The world’s largest online social network is stepping up efforts to friend Washington as it grows.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Gmail’s ‘People Widget’ Takes On Rapportive, No Browser Plugin Required

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Now You Can See Twitter The Way I See Twitter

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

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EDITORIAL
Ed Schultz suspended from MSNBC after calling Laura Ingraham a ‘right wing slut’
MSNBC suspended host Ed Schultz after he called rival pundit Laura Ingraham “a right-wing slut” during a radio broadcast Tuesday.
(, The Washington Post)

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BUSINESS
8 manufacturers recall pool, in-ground spa drain covers due to incorrect ratings
WASHINGTON — Eight manufacturers have voluntarily recalled about one million pool and in-ground spa drain covers because of incorrect water flow ratings.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Supreme Court upholds Ariz. law punishing employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants
WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court has sustained Arizona’s law that penalizes businesses for hiring workers who are in the United States illegally, rejecting arguments that states have no role in immigration matters.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Competing plans on job growth
President Obama and Congressional Republicans unveil competing plans to reduce the cost of doing business for U.S. companies.
( by Zachary A. Goldfarb , The Washington Post)

War-weary lawmakers send Obama a message by narrowly rejecting accelerated Afghan withdrawal
WASHINGTON — War-weary Republicans and Democrats on Thursday sent the strongest message yet to President Barack Obama to end the war in Afghanistan as the commander in chief decides how many U.S. troops to withdraw this summer.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Ex-Nasdaq exec pleads guilty to fraud
Former executive traded on confidential information about companies listed on the Nasdaq, reaping more than $755,000 from 2006 to 2009.
( by David S. Hilzenrath , The Washington Post)

Today's News in Brief

TODAY'S HIGHLIGHTS

Looking for answers down tornado alley
The latest tornado in Missouri has experts asking why 2011 has spawned so many deadly storms, with many blasting through heavily populated areas.
(By Brian Vastag and Ed O’Keefe)

A costly ‘special relationship’?
Obama visits London at a time when Britain is debating whether it can afford its global role.
(By Anthony Faiola)

U.S., allies weigh Yemen options
Officials, however, acknowledge that any action they pursue to force Saleh’s resignation poses risks in this strategic but turbulent and fragile country.
(By Karen DeYoung)

High court upholds order to reduce Calif. prison population
The Supreme Court says prison conditions there are “incompatible with the concept of human dignity.”
(By Robert Barnes)

Report tracks earnings among the majors
Over a lifetime, the earnings of workers who have majored in engineering, computer science or business are as much as 50 percent higher than the earnings of those who major in the humanities, the arts, education and psychology.
(By Peter Whoriskey)

POLITICS
Congress races to extend Patriot Act, send to Obama in Europe before Friday deadline
WASHINGTON — The tortoise-like Senate is under uncommon pressure to pass a four-year extension of the anti-terrorist Patriot Act before key provisions expire Friday. But the deadline is even tighter, because President Barack Obama is in Europe.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Advocates to military: Keep evidence in rape cases to enable prosecution, disability claims
WASHINGTON — The military too quickly destroys records from the hundreds of rapes and sexual assaults reported confidentially each year, say victims’ advocates and some members of Congress.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Top Supreme Court lawyer says WWII-era predecessor hid key information on Japanese internment
WASHINGTON — Nearly 70 years after the Supreme Court upheld the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II, the government’s top high court lawyer says one of his predecessors concealed critical information that could have tipped the cases.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

In reminder of al-Qaida's strength without bin Laden, Yemeni bomber leaves fingerprint behind
WASHINGTON — The FBI has a fingerprint and forensic evidence linking al-Qaida’s top bomb maker in Yemen to a trio of explosive devices used in recent attacks on the United States, tangible reminders that Osama bin Laden’s death has not eliminated the threat from the group’s most active and dangerous franchise.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Despite his worries about cutting US military strength, Gates sets path for lower budgets
WASHINGTON — One of Robert Gates’ final tasks before retiring as defense secretary is to set the Pentagon on a budget-cutting course he had spent much of his 4 1/2-year tenure trying to avoid — a path that could shrink the military’s role in the world.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

STYLE
Ask Amy: Adults stuck on childhood favoritism
Dear Amy:During childhood, my husband’s parents blatantly favored him at the expense of his siblings.For the 25 years we have been married, he, I, and our two children have been the target of his brother’s resentment, acted out at their family’s frequent gatherings.
(, Tribune Media Service)

Hints From Heloise: Does tip include alcohol?
Dear Heloise: I read the restaurant tipping hint in the Houston Chronicle. The reader suggests doubling the tax as an easy way to figure out the tip. This will work only if you don’t order alcoholic beverages. (Heloise here: This is not the case everywhere and in every situation.)
(, King)

Miss Manners: Artist doesn’t want to give away personal information
Dear Miss Manners:I live on a disability pension for a condition that is not readily apparent. I also occasionally sell works of art. When I am asked what I “do,” I usually state that I am an artist. Few are willing to leave it at this and persist with comments like “But you certainly can’t pay the rent with THAT!”
(, United Media)

Frank Stewart’s Bridge: See declarer’s hand

(, Tribune Media Service)

Take time to adjust to newly single status
Getting divorced, and have reconnected with a 20-years-ago lost love. We’ve hit it off great, but she wants to be neither the rebound nor the transitional person.
(, The Washington Post)

SPORTS
A's shut down by Weaver, get runner thrown out at plate by Hunter in 4-1 loss to Angels
ANAHEIM, Calif. — Josh Outman did the job in his first major league outing in almost two years. The Oakland Athletics offense didn’t. Of course, Jered Weaver had something to do with that.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Hunter throws out runner at plate, drives in go-ahead run for Angels in 4-1 win over A's
ANAHEIM, Calif. — If given a choice of cutting down the potential tying run at home plate or delivering a tiebreaking hit late in the game, Torii Hunter would always go with the clutch defensive play.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

All Night Long: Florida State League game goes 23 innings, Jupiter beats Clearwater 2-1
JUPITER, Fla. — A minor league game in the Class-A Florida State League lasted 23 innings Monday night before the Jupiter Hammerheads finally beat the Clearwater Threshers 2-1.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Padres lose again as Pujols ends longest HR drought with solo shot in 3-1 win
SAN DIEGO — Hours after shaking up their lineup by demoting light-hitting leadoff batter Will Venable, the San Diego Padres went out and lost again with little offense.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Pujols ends longest HR drought with solo shot as Cardinals beat Padres 3-1
SAN DIEGO — One ball left the yard and another one didn’t, both providing highlights for the St. Louis Cardinals.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

WORLD
Palace says Prince William and the former Kate Middleton to meet Obamas during state visit
LONDON — Palace says Prince William and the former Kate Middleton to meet Obamas during state visit.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Ash cloud from Iceland volcano reaches western Norway and Denmark, disrupting air traffic
OSLO, Norway — Authorities say the ash cloud from the erupting volcano in Iceland has swept over western Norway and Denmark, stalling air traffic in part of Norway and causing delays in Copenhagen.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Swaziland, Africa's last absolute monarchy, resists pressure to reform in PM comments
MBABANE, Swaziland — The prime minister of sub-Saharan Africa’s last absolute monarchy says Swaziland will resist pressure from the West over democratic reforms.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Roadside bomb kills 10 Afghan laborers
A roadside bomb hit a truck packed with laborers, killing at least 10 of them onTuesday in Afghanistan’s restive southern Kandahar province, a doctor at a local hospital said.
( by Sayed Salahuddin , The Washington Post)

Moscow court hears Khodorkovsky appeal on 2nd conviction, oil magnate calls charge 'absurd'
MOSCOW — A Moscow court is expected to decide whether to overturn imprisoned oil magnate Mikhail Khodorkovsky’s conviction for stealing from his company and laundering the proceeds.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

LIVE DISCUSSIONS
Fix Faceoff: 2012 Presidential Election
Political blogger Chris Cillizza's fast-paced video Q&A about the 2012 presidential election.
(, vForum)

Ask Boswell
Sports Columnist Tom Boswell will take your questions about baseball, the Redskins, the Wizards and more.
(, vForum)

Ask Boswell
Sports Columnist Tom Boswell will take your questions about baseball, the Redskins, the Wizards and more.
(, vForum)

Talk about Travel
Have a travel-related question, comment, suspicion, warning, gripe, sad tale or happy ending? The Post Travel section's editors and writers are at your service.
(, vForum)

D.C.'s big stories: Lunchline's Clinton Yates breaks them down (Video)
Clinton Yates a news junkie and pop culture fanatic who scours The Washington Post and its partner sites every weekday to find the gems that you want to read but don't have time to search for.
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TECHNOLOGY
Twitter Buys TweetDeck For $40 Million

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Yahoo's giving email service long-promised facelift in bid to widen appeal, attract more users
SAN FRANCISCO — Yahoo Inc. is giving its popular email service a long-promised facelift in an attempt to make it more appealing to people who are increasingly using Facebook, Twitter, Google and other online alternatives to communicate.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Jeff Jarvis: When It Comes To New Journalism, ‘Transparency Is The New Objectivity’

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Symantec Continues Move Into eDiscovery, Acquires Clearwell Systems For $390 Million

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

Happy Toy Machine Allows You To Build Your Own Plush Toys

( by TechCrunch.com , TechCrunch.com)

BUSINESS
Ford sees chance to woo Japanese buyers as rivals battle production delays
TOKYO — Ford sees a big chance in coming months to snatch buyers away from the Japanese automakers that are battling production delays caused by the March earthquake and tsunami.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Investor decides to sell Va ethanol plant, lays off majority of workers
HOPEWELL, Va. — Osage Bio Energy says it’s throwing in the towel on plans to brew ethanol from Barley at a plant in Hopewell.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Malaysia to export durians to China in July, but faces tough task breaking Thai dominance
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Malaysia will start exporting durians to mainland China from July, challenging Thailand’s virtual monopoly on shipments of the spiky, stinky delicacy that many Southeast Asians hail as “the king of fruits.”
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

DNA evidence said to link ex-IMF leader with NYC hotel maid who says he sexually assaulted her
NEW YORK — DNA taken from former International Monetary Fund leader Dominique Strauss-Kahn matches material on the uniform of a hotel maid who says he sexually assaulted her, two people familiar with the investigation told The Associated Press.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)

Brazil's Congress debates changes to forest law that environmentalists say threatens Amazon
SAO PAULO — Brazilian legislators are pushing to resume debate Tuesday on changes to an environmental law that watchdog groups warn will speed destruction of the Amazon rain forest.
( Associated Press Associated Press , AP)   

Morning News 05.09.11

Why Won't Pakistan Let the US Talk to Bin Laden's Wives? ' Mistrust and tensions grow as Pakistan refuses access to the captured Bin Laden family. ' READ FULL STORY

Apple Tops List of World's Most Valuable Brands iPad maker ends Google's four-year reign atop rankings. READ FULL STORY

Cairo's Sectarian Clashes Turn Deadly ' Violent disputes between Christians and Muslims leave at least 10 dead and nearly 200 wounded. ' READ FULL STORY

AT&T to Buy T-Mobile USA for $39 Billion

AT&T announced on Sunday that it had agreed to buy T-Mobile USA from Deutsche Telekom for $39 billion — a deal that would create the largest cellular carrier in the country.

The merger — one of the largest since the onset of the financial crisis — would combine the second and fourth largest cellular carriers in the nation, bringing together AT&T’s 95.5 million wireless subscribers with T-Mobile’s 33.7 million customers.

The transaction, which requires approval from regulators, is expected to be heavily scrutinized in Washington. The deal would leave only three major cellular carriers in the nation: AT&T, Verizon and a much smaller Sprint, which may now be forced to find a merger partner.

Already, some critics say the deal could result in higher prices for consumers. T-Mobile had offered some of the lowest rates in the country. While AT&T is expected to honor current T-Mobile contracts, it is likely that once those expire, T-Mobile customers may have to pay AT&T’s higher rates.

Still, according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, cellular subscription costs fell 50 percent between 1999 and 2009, a period in which the industry has consolidated.

“Don’t believe the hype,” said S. Derek Turner, research director of Free Press Research, a Washington think tank. “There is nothing about having less competition that will benefit wireless consumers. And if regulators approve this deal, they will further cement duopoly control over the wireless market by AT&T and Verizon.”

From the companies perspective, a deal is a big cost saver. The combined company is expected save more than $40 billion – roughly the price of the deal – over the next three years by shuttering retail outlets in areas where they overlap, reducing the need to build new cellular sites as well as eliminating overlapping back office, technical and call center staff.

Marketing costs, too, could drop. Cellular carriers have been one of the biggest advertising spenders in the nation.

Of course, it all depends on whether the deal gets the O.K. from regulators. Deutsche Telecom was so worried that the deal will not be approved that it pushed AT&T to pay a big breakup fee as a form of insurance, according to people involved in the deal. AT&T agreed to pay Deutsche Telecom a massive $3 billion breakup fee, as well as offer the company spectrum if the deal is blocked by regulators.

In hopes of winning over lawmakers, AT&T has agreed to deploy its fourth generation wireless broadband coverage to 95 percent of the country, including rural and small communities.

The Justice Department is expected to weigh in on the deal, examining the combined company’s share on a market-by-market basis. In some cities, T-Mobile is not among the four largest players, potentially helping AT&T’s case for approval. For example, in Miami, San Francisco and Detroit, Metro PCS has more customers than T-Mobile.

In an interview, AT&T’s chairman and chief executive, Randall Stephenson, said he expects the industry “will continue to be a fiercely competitive market” pointing out that “prices continue to move down.” He also said that in many markets, “on the local level you have a choice of five or more providers. When you get to the facts this a deal that gets approved.”

Under the terms of the deal, AT&T will pay $25 billion in cash and the rest in stock. Deutsche Telekom will in turn gain an 8 percent stake in AT&T and a seat on the telecom giant’s board.

AT&T’s bid will finally solve the problem facing T-Mobile USA, the smallest of the country’s four major cellphone service providers. Both companies operate on the same wireless standard, GSM. Through the deal, T-Mobile will finally gain a path for the next generation of cellphone data, known as 4G, by using AT&T’s forthcoming LTE standard.

Deutsche Telekom had been considering its options for T-Mobile for over a year. It had considered an initial public offering for the company, but shelved it. More recently, it had held talks about selling the unit to Sprint.

The talks with AT&T– which started in earnest back in December of 2010 — heated up in recent weeks amid renewed speculation about a Sprint-T-Mobile tie-up, according to people involved in the talks.

To keep the deal from leaking, the AT&T team had devised a complicated list of code names, known as “Project Auto” to throw people off the scent. AT&T was called “Tesla”; Deutsche Telecom was “Daimler” and T-Mobile was “Mercury.” When asked why T-Mobile was named after “Mercury” – not exactly known as for high-performance vehicles – Mr. Stephenson of AT&T chuckled: “We needed an ‘M.’ Nothing more.”

An army of investment bankers, which are expected to make hundreds of millions of dollars worked on the deal. AT&T was advised by Greenhill & Company, JPMorgan Chase and Evercore Partners, as well as the law firms Sullivan & Cromwell, Arnold & Porter, and Crowell & Moring. Deutsche Telekom was advised mainly by Morgan Stanley. Deutsche Bank and Credit Suisse also acted as financial advisors for Deutsche Telekom. It, too, has hired a bevy of lawyers: Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, Cleary Gottlieb and Wiley Rein to handle regulatory issues in Washington. SOURCE

Morning News 01.26.11

1. Obama Calls for Innovation, Cooperation in State of the Union Address
   The president said Americans are facing a 21st-century "Sputnik moment" that will require renewed investment in technology and innovation as the U.S. seeks to remain competitive in the global marketplace.
   Read original story in The Washington Post | Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2011

2. Two Parties Sit Together for Obama's Big Night
   The State of the Union had a prom-night feel as lawmakers frantically sought out "dates" from the rival party to sit with.
   Read original story in The Wall Street Journal | Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011

3. SOTU Response: Ryan Warns of America's Decline
   The telegenic, young(ish) chair of the House budget committee warned that "America's best century will be considered our past century" if government deficits are not reduced.
   Read original story in CBS | Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011

4. Financial Crisis Could Have Been Avoided
   A federal inquiry has concluded that the Federal Reserve and its recent chairman could have forseen--and prevented--the 2008 economic meltdown.
   Read original story in The New York Times | Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011

5. 3 Dead in Egyptian Protests
   As police clash with protesters, commentators caution that "Egypt is not Tunisia" but say the demonstrations rocking Cairo could still be significant.
   Read original story in Foreign Policy Foreign Policy | Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2011

6. Bachmann's SOTU Rebuttal Blunder
   CNN was the only network to air Rep. Michele Bachmann's Tea Party response to the State of the Union live. Unfortunately she never looked into CNN's camera.
   Read original story in Politico | Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011

7. Talking Heads React to SOTU
   Motivational or yawn-inducing? The pundits have their say.
   Read original story in The Daily Dish | Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011

8. Grand Piano Appears on Sandbar Off Miami Coast
   Authorities have no idea how the 650-pound instrument got there, and they have no plans to move it.
   Read original story in Miami Herald | Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011

9. Illinois Supreme Court Will Rule on Rahm
   The state's high court agreed to hear Rahm Emanuel's appeal on whether he's qualified to run for mayor of Chicago, and ordered the city not to print any ballots without Emanuel's name on them.
   Read original story in The Chicago Tribune | Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2011

10. Embassy Bomber Sentenced to Life in Prison
    Ahmed Khalfan Ghailani, the first former Guantanamo to be tried in civilian court in the U.S., was sentenced to life in prison for participating in the 1998 embassy bombings that killed more than 200 people.
    Read original story in BBC | Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2011

11. With 12 Nods, "The King's Speech" Leads Oscar Pack
    The monarchy drama about a stammering George VI will face off against "The Social Network" in a "showdown between classy, traditional Oscar bait and edgy, youthful, up-to-the-minute drama."
    Read original story in Associated Press | Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2011

12. NBC: Feds Can't Link Manning to Assange
    Sources tell NBC that although investigators can prove that suspected leaker Bradley Manning downloaded and passed off classified documents, there's no definitive connection between him and WikiLeaks chief Julian Assange.
    Read original story in MSNBC | Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2011

Morning News 01.20.2011

1. House Votes to Repeal Health Care Reform
   Three Democrats joined House Republicans in a primarily symbolic vote to repeal the Obama Administration's health care bill.
   Read original story in Reuters | Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011

2. Loughner Indicted in Arizona Shooting
   The 22-year-old has been indicted on charges of the attempted murder of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and her two aides.
   Read original story in The Washington Post | Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011

3. Military Tribunals to Start Again in Guantanamo
   Congress has made it next-to-impossible to bring detainees to the U.S. for trial, which means they'll face prosecution in Cuba.
   Read original story in The New York Times | Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011

4. Obama and Hu Announce $45 Billion Trade Deal
   President Obama mentioned human rights in a joint press conference with Chinese President Hu Jintao, but he focused on trade and the common interests of the United States and China.
   Read original story in The Washington Post | Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011

5. Obama's Approval Ratings Up
   While Sarah Palin's popularity hits an all-time low, President Obama is gaining support in the lead-up to next week's State of the Union.
   Read original story in Wall Street Journal | Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011

6. Wal-Mart Goes Healthy With Michelle Obama's Help
   The retail giant will cut salts, fats, and sugars and lower prices on fruit and vegetables.
   Read original story in The New York Times | Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011

7. UK Bans Pastor Terry "Burn A Koran" Jones
   Jones tried to organize a mass burning of the Koran on the most recent anniversary of 9/11. The Brits aren't too keen on him promoting his book, Islam Is of the Devil, in the UK.
   Read original story in CNN | Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011

8. NASA Swaps Astronaut After Bike Accident
   Timothy Kopra will no longer be part of the crew piloting the space shuttle Discovery next month after falling off his bike. In related troubles, NASA has already selected a backup commander of the Endeavour to step into the boots of commander Mark Kelly, husband of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.
   Read original story in AP | Thursday, Jan. 20, 2011

9. Philadelphia Abortion Doc Charged With Murder
   Dr. Kermit Gosnell, who performed late-term abortions in West Philadelphia for decades, allegedly severed babies' spinal cords with scissors after they were born alive and operated on women in conditions so dangerous that one of them died.
   Read original story in CBS Philly | Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011

10. Obama Administration Tells Congress CableGate Wasn't That Bad After All
    In public, the Obama administration has presented the WikiLeaks cable dump as a grave threat to national security, but in private briefings with congressional officials, the revelations are described as "embarrassing but not damaging."
    Read original story in Reuters | Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011

11. Giffords Will Leave Hospital Friday
    Less than two weeks after being shot in the head, the congresswoman will leave Tucson for a Houston rehabilitation hospital.
    Read original story in Politico | Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011

12. Patients Can Finally Choose Who Visits Them In the Hospital
    Regulations that took effect Tuesday will allow patients at any hospital that accepts Medicare or Medicaid to designate approved visitors.
    Read original story in ABC | Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011

Morning News 01.19.2011

1. Bomb Discovered Along MLK Jr. Day Parade Route
   A "potentially deadly" bomb was found in a backpack in Spokane, Washington on MLK Jr. Day.
   Read original story in AP | Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011

2. Peace Corps Founder Sargent Shriver Dies
   The brother-in-law to the Kennedys was a paragon of Big Government idealism, presiding over the Peace Corps and president Johnson's "War on Poverty."
   Read original story in Time | Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011

3. Employment Upswing in Manufacturing
   Factories are a bright spot in an otherwise bleak employment landscape.
   Read original story in The Wall Street Journal | Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011

4. Chinese President Expected to Emphasize "Harmony" During State Visit
   The Obama administration would very much like to engage on serious subjects including human rights, trade laws, and currency valuation, but Hu Jintao has more modest expectations.
   Read original story in CNN | Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2011

5. Are Statins Like Lipitor Overrated?
   Chloresterol-lowering drugs are a cash cow for drug companies but researchers say the medications may not benefit those at low risk of heart disease.
   Read original story in Reuters | Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011

6. Goldman's Partners: Rich and Male
   Beyond the bank's top execs lie Goldman Sachs' 475 partners, who stand to make a fortune off of company stock options. Only 13 percent of them are women.
   Read original story in The New York Times | Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011

7. Two Students Shot in L.A. School
   A high school sophomore apologized to his classmate and then fled the room after a gun in his backpack went off accidentally, wounding two classmates.
   Read original story in The Los Angeles Times | Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2011

8. Haiti Charges Baby Doc With Corruption, Theft
   The former dictator said he returned to Haiti to help his country, but instead he's being held accountable for the harm he inflicted 25 years ago.
   Read original story in BBC | Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2011

9. Lieberman Joins Ranks of Retiring Senate Liberals
   The Connecticut independent will officially announce that he's not seeking reelection Wednesday, the day after North Dakota Democrat Kent Conrad said he won't run in 2012
   Read original story in Politico | Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2011

10. Royal Succession Courts Gender Equality
    Elizabeth II would never have been Queen if she'd had a younger brother. The British government is out to change that.
    Read original story in The Daily Telegraph | Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2011

11. Apple Made $27 Billion Last Quarter, Shipped 7.3 million iPads
    But the even-better-than-expected earnings report was overshadowed by questions about CEO Steve Jobs' health.
    Read original story in Business Insider | Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2011

12. Magnitude 7.2 Earthquake Hits Pakistan
    The tremor was felt as far away as Dubai, but isn't believed to have caused massive damage.
    Read original story in | Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2011

Tax breaks for the unemployed

In some cases, federal tax laws could pose new costs to unemployed individuals. But in others, tax provisions could help ease, at least a bit, the financial strains of unemployment.

Pay taxes on unemployment

First, the bad news. Unemployment compensation is taxable income. A few years ago, a small amount of unemployment benefits were exempted from taxation, but that tax break has expired.

You'll get a Form 1099-G that will tell you how much unemployment you must report on that year's tax return. If you opted not to have taxes withheld from unemployment payments or didn't make estimated tax payments on the amount, you'll likely owe the Internal Revenue Service.

Married couples have another option. If your spouse has a job, cover the unemployment taxes by having your husband or wife adjust his or her withholding to cover the taxes due on your benefits.

Check EITC eligibility

The earned income tax credit, or EITC, is a tax break for workers who don't make very much money. Because your overall earnings were reduced by your layoff, you now may be eligible for the EITC.

Unemployment benefits don't count toward EITC eligibility, but if you earned any other income during the year you can use that amount to calculate a possible credit claim. Also, if you are married and your spouse is working, your loss of income may now make your combined earnings eligible for the credit.

Single taxpayers can claim the EITC, but the benefit is greater for workers with dependent children.

Read more: Tax breaks for the unemployed http://www.bankrate.com/finance/taxes/tax-breaks-for-the-unemployed-1.aspx#ixzz1BQ8yzWuX