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Federal Drug Lawyer Charles Johnson represents clients who have been charged or are about to be charged with drug charges in Federal Court. The Charles Johnson Law Firm has earned an international reputation as one of the top Federal Drug Law Firms.
Regardless of the federal or international drug charge, Federal Drug Lawyer Charles Johnson has the drug defense experience to handle your case. He has successfully handled sophisticated drug defense cases that included Trafficking, Importation, Distribution and many others. When faced with a federal drug crime there is absolutely no substitute for experience. If you have been charged with drug crime and need a Federal Drug Defense Attorney, contact Attorney Johnson directly anytime night or day at (713) 222-7577. In Federal and International Drug Defense, experience makes the difference.
Federal Drug Crimes Overview
The Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970, also known as the Controlled Substances Act, classifies narcotics, marijuana and other drugs into five categories, or Schedules. Besides establishing requirements relating to manufacture and distribution of drugs, the law also defines penalties for violations of the Act. Depending on the nature and quantity of the substance involved, as well as the presence of sentence-enhancing factors, the criminal penalties can be severe. If you are facing federal drug charges, call Houston Federal Drug Crime Lawyer Charles Johnson for advice on the law, your rights and how to proceed. He is available around the clock to take your call.
Offenses at the Federal Level
Federal drug offenses differ from those at the state level, even though the conduct in question might be the same. In defining crimes, Congress' authority comes from its Constitutionally-granted powers over the areas of commerce, taxation and the postal service.
Some of the drug crimes under the Controlled Substances Act include:
- Drug trafficking: manufacturing, distributing or possessing with the intent to distribute illicit drugs
- Manufacturing: operating places for the purposes of manufacturing, distributing or using illicit drugs, or endangering human life while so doing
- Continuing criminal enterprise crimes: trafficking in illicit drugs by a person in concert with five or more other persons
- Conspiracy: involves attempts and the promoting and facilitating of manufacture, distribution or importation of illicit drugs
- Protected location offenses: distributing illicit drugs to persons under age 21 or within a school or playground zone; employing persons under age 18 in drug operations
- Simple possession: possessing controlled substances without a valid prescription from a licensed medical practitioner (unlike trafficking, simple possession does not involve intent to distribute the drugs)
Other drug offenses under the Act include investing illicit drug profits in businesses affecting interstate commerce and unauthorized importation of controlled substances. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) enforces the federal controlled substances laws and regulations.
In addition, drug crimes at the federal level may include violations of tax law, such as tax evasion, or engaging in activities prohibited by the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).
Federal Sentencing Guidelines
Federal drug laws specify minimum and maximum terms of imprisonment, based on the type and quantity of drug involved. Likewise, under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, these factors are taken into account, along with:
- Whether the offense involved injury to another person
- Whether a weapon was possessed or used
- The defendant's criminal history
While judges have discretion to depart from sentencing guidelines, they must still stay within the mandatory minimum and maximum terms specified by statute. Where the offense occurs in a school or other protected zone, penalties may be enhanced.
Hire an Experienced Federal Drug Crimes Lawyer: The Charles Johnson Law Firm
Drug crimes can be charged and prosecuted under federal law, state law or both. Because federal drug crimes can carry significantly harsher penalties, it is important to contact a knowledgeable lawyer who is familiar with both federal and state drug laws. If you are facing either federal or state drug charges, call Federal Drug Crimes Lawyer Charles Johnson now at (713) 222-7577. He can explain the intricacies of both systems and vigorously represent your interests.
Charged with a Federal Crime? What To Expect
The following is a short summary of what you can expect if charged with a Federal Crime.
By the time you read this material, you or your loved one will have already entered the Federal Criminal Justice System. Whether you are in custody or in the "free world", one firm rule applies: Do not discuss your case with anyone but your lawyer. Anything you say can and will be used against you. This is true whether you talk to a police officer, a person you just met in a holding cell, or a "friend".
The first thing to worry about is whether you are going to be released while waiting for trial. There is no bond set automatically in federal court. Your family cannot simply pay a bondsman to get you out.
Court Appearance: If you were arrested and taken into custody, you will soon appear before a United States Magistrate Judge. This is not the District Judge that will hear your trial. This Magistrate Judge will decide if there are any conditions that would allow your release.
Pretrial Report: In order to assist the Magistrate Judge, a Pretrial Services Officer will interview you and give the Magistrate Judge a written report about your background and criminal history. The Officer will not ask you about the facts of your case and you should not volunteer any information. If you lie to the Officer, it will hurt you later on.
Chance for Release: You are most likely to be released if you have little or no criminal history, if you have solid employment and family ties in your community, if you are a United States Citizen, and if you are not charged with a serious drug trafficking offense or crime of violence. Even if you are not a good risk for release, the Magistrate Judge must still hold a hearing and find reasons to keep you in custody. The only time this hearing is unnecessary is when you are being held in custody for other reasons — such as a sentence in another case, a parole warrant, or a probation revocation warrant.
When you are facing criminal charges, your choice of legal representation is a critical issue. You must ensure that you have legal representation from a proven attorney with a record of successfully defending difficult cases.
In order to protect your rights and to fight a possible Federal drug conviction, it is very important to hire the Best Federal Lawyer you can find. Your future is at stake, and this is not a time to cut corners. A knowledgeable Drug Crime Defense Lawyer will be able to sort out the details of your drug crime charges and diligently work to provide evidence that will benefit you. At the Charles Johnson Law Firm, we have been successful at lowering or dismissing charges against our clients and will look to do the same for you. To counteract the aggressive investigation and prosecution from the federal government, you will need an equally aggressive criminal defense attorney. Federal Drug Crime Lawyer Charles Johnson understands federal drug crime cases inside and out and will provide an unmatched dedication, commitment and an aggressive approach when defending your case.
Honesty: Defendants often believe it is better not to tell their lawyers the truth about their case. This is not a good idea. Everything you tell your lawyer is privileged and cannot be told to others. The best defense is one that prepares for all the bad evidence the prosecutor may present against you at your trial. Your lawyer must know all the facts. It is foolish to ignore the dangers and simply hope everything will turn out all right. That is the sure way to be convicted.
Bad Advice: If you are in custody, you will probably get a lot of free advice from other inmates. Unfortunately, much of that advice will be wrong. Many of the other inmates are in state custody and know nothing about federal criminal law. Even the ones facing federal charges may give you bad advice; they may not know any better, or they want to mislead you.
Respect: Treat your lawyer with respect and that respect will be returned to you. Lawyers are human beings who tend to work harder for clients who do not mistreat them.
When people talk about "rights" in the federal criminal justice system, they are usually talking about the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth and Eighth Amendments to the United States Constitution. These rights include freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures, the right to remain silent, the right to legal counsel, due process of law, equal protection under the law, protection from double jeopardy, a speedy and public trial, the ability to confront one's accusers, subpoenas for witnesses, no excessive bail, and freedom from cruel and unusual punishment.
Caselaw: There are many books and thousands of cases that discuss what these rights mean. The law is always changing. A court opinion written in 1934 by a Montana court of appeals is probably no help in your case. Your case will mostly be affected by recent published opinions of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit and the United States Supreme Court.
Application: Not all of these rights apply in all cases. If you never made a statement to the police, then it will not matter whether you were told of your right to remain silent. If you consented to a search of your car, then it will not make a difference whether the police had a search warrant.
There are no benefits to being locked up. Jail has many rules and regulations. Some of those rules are made by the jailers. Some of these rules are made by the United States Marshal.
Clothing: You can get clothing two ways. The way to get underwear, tennis shoes, socks, etc, is to buy them through the jail commissary. Despite what others tell you, your lawyer cannot simply bring you these items. In most instances, trial clothing can be brought to the U.S. Marshal's office shortly before your court appearance. You will be allowed to change in the holding cell at the federal courthouse.
Other Possessions: Sometimes the jail may allow you to receive magazines by subscription or books mailed from a store. It depends on the jail's rules. Most other items need to be purchased through the commissary. All jails prohibit your lawyer from bringing you any items, such as cigarettes. You may keep legal documents in your possession.
Visits: Your friends and relatives must follow the jail's rules when making appointments to visit you. You must put the names of these persons on your visitation list.
At some point you will come to court for an arraignment. This is the time when you enter a plea of "Not Guilty".
Indictment: Before the arraignment, you will have been indicted by a Grand Jury. Neither you, nor your attorney, has a right to be present at the Grand Jury session. A Grand Jury decides if there is enough evidence to have a trial in your case. If there is not, then the case is dismissed. If there is, the Grand Jury issues an Indictment. An Indictment is the document that states what the charges against you are. The Grand Jury sessions are rarely transcribed, so it is usually not possible to receive a transcript of their sessions.
Hearing: The arraignment takesplace before a Magistrate Judge,notthe DistrictJudge who will hear your case. The Magistrate Judge will ask you several questions:
- Do you understand what you are charged with?;
- Do you understand the potential penalties if you are convicted?; and
- How do you plead to the charges?
Since you will have discussed the case with your lawyer by this time, you will be able to answer the first two questions "Yes". Your answer to the third question is "Not Guilty". You cannot plead "Guilty" at an arraignment. Pleading "Not Guilty" will never be used against you.
Discovery: Federal law provides only limited access to the government's evidence against you. Under local rules, you and your attorney are permitted to have copies of only certain types of documents in the government's file. The rules of discovery must be strictly adhered to, and your attorney will discuss these rules with you more thoroughly as your case progresses.
Motions: Before or after investigating your case, your attorney may feel it appropriate to file a motion(s), which may be heard before or at trial. You should never file your own motions without fully discussing the proper procedures with your attorney. If you have ideas about specific motions that could be filed your case, you should discuss with your attorney whether those particular motions would be appropriate or beneficial to your defense.
Many defendants want a quick trial. This is usually for two reasons. First, defendants who are in custody want to get out of the county jail as soon as possible. Second, defendants believe that if they are not tried within the Speedy Trial Act's 70-day time limit, then their cases will be dismissed.
Pretrial Detention: There is no question that conditions in the county jail are not good. However, a defendant is rarely ever helped by going to trial as soon as possible. The prosecutor is prepared to try the case when it is filed. Your lawyer is only then beginning to investigate the case. Your lawyer does not have access to offense reports of the law enforcement officers that have already investigated the case. Also, "aging" a case has other benefits — the case becomes less important over time, witnesses' memories fade, etc.
Dismissal: There are many exceptions to the Speedy Trial Act. Generally, a prosecutor can get a continuance of the trial whenever requested. The usual reason why a prosecutor requests a continuance is because there are codefendants who have not been arrested yet. The speedy trial deadlines do not begin to run until all charged defendants have appeared in court. Also, any time any of the defendants file motions, the time until those motions are decided is not counted toward the speedy trial deadline.
A felony trial in federal court is decided by twelve jurors. The jurors only decide if you are "Guilty" or "Not Guilty" of the charges in the Indictment. Jurors do not decide punishment. The District Judge decides punishment.
Jury Selection: The trial begins with the selection of the jury. A panel of potential jurors is called to court from voter registration lists. The District Judge, the prosecutor, and your lawyer talk to the panel and ask questions. The lawyers are allowed to keep certain members of the panel from sitting on the jury. The first twelve of the remaining panel members become jurors.
Opening Statements: Before the evidence is presented, the lawyers may make opening statements. Opening statements are when the lawyers tell the jury what they believe the evidence will show.
Order of Proof: The prosecutor presents evidence first. You are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. You do not have to present any evidence or testify. If your lawyer does put on evidence, it will happen after the prosecutor has finished presenting evidence.
Rules: During the trial, the lawyers must follow the rules of evidence and procedure. These rules are complicated. The rules can both help and hurt you. For instance, the rule against hearsay evidence prohibits a prosecutor from calling a witness to testify how he heard about what you did. The same rule will stop your lawyer from introducing an affidavit made by some person who is unwilling to come to court and testify.
Prior Acts: Although you are only on trial for the charges in the Indictment, there are two ways the jury can learn about other accusations against you. First, if you testify then the prosecutor will be able to introduce your prior convictions. Second, the prosecutor can introduce your prior acts –even if they are not convictions — if they are similar to the crime you are charged with (for example, prior drug sales in a drug distribution case).
Final Arguments: After all the evidence has been presented, the lawyers argue the facts to the jury.
Jury Deliberations: Jurors are usually average working people from the community. They are not specially trained in law. They use their common sense when deciding the case. Although the District Judge will instruct them about "the presumption of innocence" and "proof beyond a reasonable doubt", jurors rely on many things in coming to a decision in a case. Jurors often rely on things such as: the appearance of the defendant, the defendant's character, and their own biases and prejudices. They cannot be questioned about how they reached their decision.
Verdict: If you are found "Not Guilty", you will be released. If there is a "Guilty" verdict, then the District Judge will order the Probation Department to prepare a Presentence Investigation Report to assist the District Judge at sentencing. It takes approximately two months between a conviction and sentencing.
Release: If you were previously on pretrial release,the District Judge may continue thatrelease until sentencing, unless you were convicted of a crime of violence or a serious drug trafficking offense.
Statistics show that most defendants plead guilty. You make the decision to plead guilty. That decision is never simple. Some possible benefits of a guilty plea are that:
- the prosecutor may dismiss some charges;
- the prosecutor may not file new charges;
- the prosecutor may recommend a favorable sentence;
- you may get credit for accepting responsibility, etc.
Plea Agreement: Any promises the prosecutor makes for your guilty plea will be stated in a written plea agreement. That agreement is signed by you, your lawyer, and the prosecutor.
Plea Hearing: You must enter a guilty plea in court before the District Judge. The District Judge must ask you many questions so the record shows you understand what you are doing. During the hearing, the prosecutor will briefly tell the District Judge the facts of the case. You must agree to those facts for the District Judge to accept your guilty plea.
Effect of Plea: Once the District Judge accepts your guilty plea, you are just as guilty as if a jury returned that verdict. Once you are convicted of a felony, you lose certain civil rights, including the right to vote; the right to sit on a jury; and the right to possess firearms.
After Plea: The procedure after a guilty plea is the same as after a conviction at trial. A Presentence Investigation Report will be ordered and you will either be released or detained until sentencing (see "Trial" section).
Some defendants give prosecutors information against other persons for the possibility of a reduced sentence. There is no guarantee that a defendant will get a lower sentence for "giving people up". Cooperation usually requires a defendant to testify in court or before a Grand Jury.
Many times, federal defendants are first arrested by state officers on state charges. Sometimes, even when federal charges are filed, the state charges are not dismissed. It is possible to be convicted of both state and federal charges for the exact same offense. This is not "double jeopardy". It is also possible to receive "stacked time" (a consecutive sentence), by pleading guilty to an unrelated state or federal case before being convicted in your federal case. Be careful not to do anything about your other cases without telling your attorney. If you are summoned to "jail call", do not agree to plead guilty to your state charge in exchange for "time served" without telling your lawyer. Despite what the state prosecutor may tell you, this conviction will affect your federal sentence.
Sentencing takes place approximately three (3) -six (6) months after you have been convicted by a jury or guilty plea. The District Judge decides the sentence. Unlike state court, you cannot simply agree with the prosecutor to serve a particular amount of time or probation.
Federal Sentencing Guidelines: The District Judge decides your sentence based upon a book called the "Federal Sentencing Guidelines Manual". That book works on a point system. You get points for the seriousness of the offense and your role in the offense. Points may be subtracted if you accept responsibility for the offense or if you were only a minor participant. The Manual also considers your criminal history. Your criminal history is the record of your prior convictions in state and federal courts. A chart at the back of the Manual determines your sentencing guideline range, based upon your criminal history points and the points you received for the offense conduct.
Mandatory Minimum Punishments: Some drug and firearms cases have mandatory minimum punishments. These minimum punishments apply even if the Federal Sentencing Guidelines would otherwise give you a lower sentence. For instance, anyone possessing over 280 grams of crack cocaine after August 3 2010, with the intent to deliver it, must receive at least ten (10) years in prison; even if that person is a first offender.
Departures: If the District Judge sentences you to more or less time than your sentencing guideline range, it is called a "departure". Departures are unusual. The District Judge must have a good legal reason for a departure. The District Judge cannot depart downward below a mandatory minimum punishment, unless the reason is that you have provided substantial assistance to the government in the prosecution of others or you qualify for the "safety valve" provision as a first offender. Only drug cases qualify for the "safety valve".
Presentence Investigation Report: Before the sentencing hearing,the District Judge will review a Presentence Investigation Report prepared by a Probation Officer. That report summarizes the offense conduct, your criminal history, and other relevant background information about you. Most importantly, the report calculates a range of punishment for the District Judge to consider in your case. The Probation Officer creates the report based upon information from the prosecutor, independent investigation, and an interview with you in the presence of your lawyer.
Interview: It is important to be honest with the Probation Officer at the presentence interview. If you mislead the officer you may increase your sentence for "obstruction of justice". Also, you will not get credit for accepting responsibility unless you talk truthfully about your crime. Do not talk about any other conduct for which you have not been convicted, unless your lawyer tells you to.
Objections: Before the District Judge gets the Presentence Investigation Report, it will be sent to your lawyer. The probation office will also mail a copy directly to you for your inspection. Review it carefully. If there is anything incorrect about the report, your lawyer can file objections. Some mistakes are more important than others. If the report says your car is red rather than blue, that is probably not important. If the report says you have five (5) prior felonies when you do not, that is important.
Sentencing Hearing: At the sentencing hearing, the District Judge will review your objections to the Presentence Investigation Report and make findings about any facts or legal issues that cannot be agreed upon. Your lawyer will address the legal issues and point out the facts in your favor. District Judges do not want to hear from witnesses who are just there to plead for a reduced sentence. Letters of recommendation and other helpful evidence should be provided to your lawyer well before sentencing so the District Judge can see them before the hearing. Before the District Judge pronounces sentence, you can make a statement.
Concurrent and Consecutive Sentences: No area of law is more confusing to defendants and lawyers than whether multiple sentences (more than one) may be served at the same time (concurrent) or one after another (consecutive).
Present Charges: If your federal Indictment has several related charges, and you are convicted of them, you probably will serve these sentences at the same time. However, it is possible for the District Judge to "stack" unrelated convictions so each must be served before another begins.
Other Charges: Sometimes a defendant is already serving a sentence before being convicted in a federal court. Unless the District Judge specifically orders the new sentence to run at the same time as the previous sentence, they will be stacked and will run consecutively. You would have to finish your other sentence before the new one begins. Even if the District Judge runs the new sentence at the same time as your previous sentence, you will not get credit for the time you served prior to sentencing.
If you were on release until sentencing, you may be allowed voluntary surrender. This means about 45 days later you report directly to the federal prison designated for sentence. Otherwise, you would go directly into custody if you received a prison sentence.
An appeal is not a new trial. An appeal is a review of your case by the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, which is located in New Orleans, Louisiana. You may only appeal after you have been sentenced. A notice of appeal must be filed within 10 days after judgment (your sentencing order) is entered, or you lose that right. Transcripts of all testimony, and all the legal documents in your case, are sent to the Court of Appeals. The Court of Appeals decides whether the District Judge made any mistakes in ruling on the law in your case. If the Court of Appeals decides there were some important mistakes made by the District Judge in your case, the usual remedy is that you will be allowed to have a new trial or a new sentence. That is called a "reversal". It does not happen often. It is nearly impossible to be released while your appeal is being decided. The decision to appeal should be made only after a careful discussion with your lawyer. The Fifth Circuit is strict about accepting cases that raise legitimate issues. A claim that you received "too much time" will not prevail in the Fifth Circuit. The Fifth Circuit will dismiss your appeal if you do not present an issue they consider meritorious. Also, you and your lawyer can be sanctioned (punished) if you present a "frivolous" issue on appeal.
Probation means your term of imprisonment is suspended, you must follow restrictive conditions, and report to a probation officer. Probation is not available for federal drug trafficking crimes. Except for minor fraud cases, most federal defendants do not get probation. "Shock Incarceration" or "Boot Camp" is not probation. That is a military discipline program followed by time in a halfway house. It is available mostly to young, nonviolent, first-time offenders.
Most defendants who are sentenced to prison go directly into custody or continue to remain in custody. Where the sentence will be served depends on several factors.
State Custody: If the reason you first came into custody was a state charge, parole warrant, or probation revocation warrant, then you are in state custody, not federal custody. Neither the United States Marshal, nor the District Judge, has the authority to take you from state custody so that you may begin serving your sentence in a federal institution. This means you will remain in the county jail, or the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, until your State of Texas (or whatever other jurisdiction you owe time) sentence is completely served. Even if you got a federal sentence that is to run at the same time as your previous sentences (see "Sentencing" section), you will do that time in the other jurisdiction's prison.
Jail Credit: In the federal system, the district judge does not have the authority to award jail credit at your sentencing hearing. See United States v. Wilson , 112 S.Ct. 1351 (1992); 18 U.S.C. §3585(b). Under the statute giving a defendant convicted of federal crime the right to be credited for time spent in official detention before sentence begins, the Attorney General is required to compute credit after the defendant has begun to serve his sentence, rather than the district court at time of sentencing. Statute giving defendant convicted of federal crime right to receive credit for time spent in official detention before sentence begins does not authorize district court to award credit at sentencing.
Federal Custody: You are in federal custody if you were brought in on a federal warrant. It does not matter that you are being held in the county jail or that state charges or revocations are later filed. It is always better to be in federal custody, because the State of Texas will give you credit for serving your state sentences no matter who has custody of you.
Designation: If you are in federal custody, then a federal institution must be designated for your sentence. This designation takes about one (1) month and is made by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. During that month, you will probably remain in a county jail. The decision about where you will go depends upon the seriousness of the crime, your criminal history, the location of your family, among other things. A recommendation by the District Judge to send you to a particular place is not binding on the Bureau of Prisons.
Good Time Credit: The Bureau of Prisons can give you up to 54 days a year of "Good Time Credit". This is time subtracted from your sentence. The credit is a privilege for good behavior, not a right. It does not begin to be counted until after your first year in prison.
Release: There is no parole in the federal criminal justice system. You will serve the majority of your sentence, minus Good Time Credit. You will receive a term of supervised release that begins after you are released. Like probation or parole, supervised release means you have to follow rules and report back to a probation officer. Violating supervised release can mean going back to prison.
You must use your own judgment about writing letters. You should not write about the facts of your case to anyone other than your lawyer. If you have any questions about your case or suggestions about it, you should contact your attorney immediately.
Federal Drug Charges in Houston, TX
Houston is in a unique position because of its convenient location. It is a criminal hotbed for illegal drug activity and because of its reputation, law enforcement; the FBI and the DEA are on high alert when it comes to detecting and convicting those guilty of trafficking or other federal drug crimes. Because drug activity is so rampant in Texas, the state has exceptionally harsh penalties for those who commit federal drug crimes. How one is prosecuted will depend on whether or not they have any priors on their record, the type of drug, and the quantity. A prison sentence for a federal drug crime can be as little as five years or it can be as long as life in prison.
The state of Texas has long been involved in a "war on drugs." Federal prosecutors in the state of Texas come down hard on criminals involved in selling, distributing and trafficking large amounts of drugs. Not only do you face years in prison if convicted, non-citizens face deportation from the United States. At The Charles Johnson Law Firm, we are here to defend you against Federal Drug Charges.
Houston Federal Drug Crimes Lawyer Charles Johnson comprehends the differential factor between State and Federal drug crimes. If in fact you or a loved one are under investigation for a drug crime, or if you have been apprehended for or charged with a drug crime in Texas or Houston, you could face harsher punishment than you expect. If you or a loved one's alleged crime is based upon large amounts of illegal drugs, transporting or distributing drugs over state lines or over and across the border, or other specific details, you could face federal drug crime charges rather than state charges.
The significant thing to know pertaining federal drug crimes is that a conviction will carry a much harsher punishment, a longer mandatory at the very least sentence, and the possibility of no bond or bail. Attorney Johnson defends cases at the Federal Level that involve drug crimes such as:
- Federal drug trafficking
- Federal drug manufacturing
- Federal drug sales and distribution
- Internet drug distribution
- Federal drug importation and transportation
- Mailing drugs over and across state lines or national borders
- Drug smuggling into or out of the United States
- Other crimes related to drugs and money laundering
Contact Houston Lawyer Charles Johnson anytime night or day to discuss your case. You can speak with him directly by calling (713) 222-7577. If in fact you or a loved one think you are part of a federal drug investigation, don't wait to contact a lawyer you can trust. Rest assured that The Charles Johnson Law Firm will zealously defend you against any type of Federal Drug Charge.


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Here is the Vatican-provided translation of the Holy Father's address to the President of the «Diyanet», (Religious Affairs), Prof. Mehmet Gormez, in Ankara, Turkey.
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Mr President,
Religious and Civil Authorities,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am pleased to meet with you today in the course of my visit to your country. I thank the President of this distinguished office for his cordial invitation which affords me the opportunity to share these moments with political and religious leaders, both Muslim and Christian.
It is a tradition that Popes, when they visit different countries as part of their mission, meet also with the leaders and members of various religions. Without this openness to encounter and dialogue, a Papal Visit would not fully correspond to its purposes. And so I have wished to meet you, following in the footsteps of my venerable predecessors. In this context, I am pleased to recall in a special way Pope Benedict XVI's visit to this very same place in November 2006.
Good relations and dialogue between religious leaders have, in fact, acquired great importance. They represent a clear message addressed to their respective communities which demonstrates that mutual respect and friendship are possible, notwithstanding differences. Such friendship, as well as being valuable in itself, becomes all the more meaningful and important in a time of crises such as our own, crises which in some parts of the world are disastrous for entire peoples.
Wars cause the death of innocent victims and bring untold destruction, interethnic and interreligious tensions and conflicts, hunger and poverty afflicting hundreds of millions of people, and inflict damage on the natural environment – air, water and land.
Especially tragic is the situation in the Middle East, above all in Iraq and Syria. Everyone suffers the consequences of these conflicts, and the humanitarian situation is unbearable. I think of so many children, the sufferings of so many mothers, of the elderly, of those displaced and of all refugees, subject to every form of violence. Particular concern arises from the fact that, owing mainly to an extremist and fundamentalist group, entire communities, especially – though not exclusively – Christians and Yazidis, have suffered and continue to suffer barbaric violence simply because of their ethnic and religious identity. They have been forcibly evicted from their homes, having to leave behind everything to save their lives and preserve their faith. This violence has also brought damage to sacred buildings, monuments, religious symbols and cultural patrimony, as if trying to erase every trace, every memory of the other.
As religious leaders, we are obliged to denounce all violations against human dignity and human rights. Human life, a gift of God the Creator, possesses a sacred character. As such, any violence which seeks religious justification warrants the strongest condemnation because the Omnipotent is the God of life and peace. The world expects those who claim to adore God to be men and women of peace who are capable of living as brothers and sisters, regardless of ethnic, religious, cultural or ideological differences.
As well as denouncing such violations, we must also work together to find adequate solutions. This requires the cooperation of all: governments, political and religious leaders, representatives of civil society, and all men and women of goodwill. In a unique way, religious leaders can offer a vital contribution by expressing the values of their respective traditions. We, Muslims and Christians, are the bearers of spiritual treasures of inestimable worth. Among these we recognize some shared elements, though lived according to the traditions of each, such as the adoration of the All-Merciful God, reference to the Patriarch Abraham, prayer, almsgiving, fasting… elements which, when lived sincerely, can transform life and provide a sure foundation for dignity and fraternity. Recognizing and developing our common spiritual heritage – through interreligious dialogue – helps us to promote and to uphold moral values, peace and freedom in society (cf. John Paul II, Address to the Catholic Community in Ankara, 29 November 1979). The shared recognition of the sanctity of each human life is the basis of joint initiatives of solidarity, compassion, and effective help directed to those who suffer most. In this regard, I wish to express my appreciation for everything that the Turkish people, Muslims and Christians alike, are doing to help the hundreds of thousands of people who are fleeing their countries due to conflicts. This is a clear example of how we can work together to serve others, an example to be encouraged and maintained.
I wish also to express my satisfaction at the good relations which exist between the Diyanet and the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. It is my earnest desire that these relations will continue and be strengthened for the good of all, so that every initiative which promotes authentic dialogue will offer a sign of hope to a world which so deeply needs peace, security and prosperity.
Mr President, I renew my gratitude to you and your colleagues for this meeting, which fills my heart with joy. I am grateful also to each one of you, for your presence and for your prayers which, in your kindness, you offer for me and my ministry. For my part, I assure you of my prayers. May the Lord grant us all his blessing.
[01937-02.01] [Original text: Italian]© Copyright – Libreria Editrice Vaticana

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Section Branding
Header Content
30 hours after food poisoning, Jessie Diggins wins silver in 30-km cross-country race
Primary Content
Jessie Diggins made history on multiple fronts Sunday when she took the silver in the women's 30-kilometer freestyle mass start in Beijing. Not only did she become the first non-European athlete to bring home a medal in the event, she's now the only American to bring back multiple cross-country medals from the same Olympics — and she did it having barely recovered from food poisoning.
Diggins' second-place finish Sunday marked her third Olympic medal. Having brought home the bronze in the sprint finals nearly two weeks ago and the gold in the team sprint freestyle in 2018, the 30-year-old Minnesota native has a medal of every color, making her the winningest cross-country skier in U.S. Olympic history.
Her podium finish was made even more impressive when word got out that Diggins had been suffering from food poisoning leading up to the race.
"That's one of the hardest things I've ever done in my whole life, especially because I had food poisoning 30 hours ago, which is why I thought I was going to die at the finish line," Diggins said.
Diggins finished behind Norway's gold medalist, Johaug Therese, and 50 seconds ahead of Finland's Kerttu Niskanen. She had climbed to second place about a third of the way into the race and held her ground.
She battled frigid temperatures and high winds the entire 30 kilometers, even though her legs began to cramp up halfway through, a Team USA news release said. When she finally crossed the finish line, exhausted and out of breath, she collapsed.
"That might have been the best race of my entire life, I'm not going to lie," Diggins said. "It was also maybe the hardest race of my whole life."
Her silver brought Team USA's medal count for the games to 25. The United States hadn't performed particularly well in cross-country skiing before Diggins came on the scene. Until Diggins and her teammate, Kikkan Randall, took the gold in the team sprint in 2018, the last cross-country medal Team USA brought back was in 1976, when Bill Koch took silver in the 30k.
"It's been an emotional roller-coaster, but I am so happy we made it to the end," Diggins said. "To have a medal in the sprint and the 30K are the ultimate bookends for me. I have been trying to be a good all-round athlete my whole life, so this has been really cool."
Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.
An earlier version of this story misidentified Finland's cross-country skier as Niskanen Kerttu. Her name is Kerttu Niskanen.


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Coffee, Beer Among the Bad Things That Are Suddenly Good for You in 2011
For years society has told us that drinking coffee, drinking beer and swearing are bad, but thanks to the results of new research released in 2011, some things we thought were bad are actually good for us. Turns out being a caffeine-addled, Guinness-soaked potty mouth actually improves your health -- in moderation, of course.
Maybe we shouldn't be drinking gallons of coffee every day, and really, those fancy cappuccinos and frappuccinos are rather high in calories and therefore not exactly good for us, but, research has now shown that the caffeine in coffee can protect women from depression.
Drinking more coffee may help you multitask by giving you a little boost, but it's time we all slow down and do just one thing a time. Society frowns on those who can't get 17 things done at once, but a new study this year showed that multitasking is actually making it harder for people to recall details. Doing one thing at a time could lead to better memory functions.
Perhaps if you do want to forget, you drink beer. Of course, we know beer is bad for us. It's got loads of calories and too much can lead to spontaneous karaoke. But is it really all bad? Researchers say it isn't. An Italian study showed that moderate beer drinkers had a 31% decreased risk of heart disease. Of course, if you overdo it, the benefits disappear. (So do your inhibitions, self control and any plates of cheese fries within reach.)
Growing up, how many times did you have your mouth washed out with soap or have to put a quarter in the swear jar? Parents always wanted us to keep it clean, but a study released this year showed that swearing helps people deal with pain. In the study, people who swore were able to hold their hands in cold water longer than those who were not permitted to let the curses fly. But watch out -- this was only effective for those who didn't swear regularly.
Those aren't all the bad things that have turned out to be good. There are so many things you should be treating yourself to in the new year, like funny movies, fevers, red wine, fidgeting and chocolate. Read about all 11 of them here. Turns out it doesn't just feel good to be bad -- it's also good for you.
[via Huffington Post]


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Thus, you can enable the Billing User to List Transactions, Add Funds, etc., but not be able to changes the Name Servers of the domain name and so on. In effect, User creation would help you to assign fixed roles to persons of your company and assigning them different responsibilities to reduce your own workload.


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Reviews of Trader Joe's Brand Food Products From People That Are Totally Not Affiliated With Trader Joe's
Having a Trader Joes (two actually) nearby that aren't insanely crowded like our old Union Square location has allowed us to fully embrace the chain of that specializes in easy but unique ready made meals, cheap wine, and can boast that it does not use GMOs (yay). But, the variety can be overwhelming. Wouldn't it be great if someone out there had tried all the offerings then written concise, entertaining reviews?
Well, I have good news for you! What's Good At Trader Joe's does just that and it's already led me to their Mango Passion Granola (yum!) and Spinach and Kale Greek Yogurt Dip (yum, again!) neither of which I would have necessarily picked up while browsing. It's a little over doing it to do research before shopping like this, but we like to over do it, right?!
A few more photos wouldn't hurt, but I am impressed that it's consistently updated.


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Welcome to the Fairfax Library Foundation
Do you recall your first visit to the library? Most of us have fond memories of the day we received our very own library card. And what about the fantastic "journeys" you took as you delved into the pages of books you checked out from your local branch. Your library card was all you needed—your ticket to explore endless avenues of discovery!
The Fairfax Library Foundation exists solely to enhance the programs, services, and collections of the Fairfax County Public Library. Gifts to the Foundation supplement public funding to help the library expand its reach to children and adults in every corner of our community.
In the words of Albert Einstein, "The only thing that you absolutely have to know is the location of the library."
The Fairfax Library Foundation believes that the library is a cornerstone of an educated, civilized society, and an essential resource for all. We hope you enjoy exploring our site and learning more about what we do—and ways that you can help!


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"I am an Islamist! I am the anti-Christ!" With their tongues firmly in cheek, Boston's The Kominas belt out an anthem for a new generation of young Muslims. And in this basement of a decrepit Chicago punkhouse, a mob of like-minded Islamic misfits sneers along.
It is the summer of 2007. The Pakistani punkers have arrived at the last stop of their U.S. tour and are celebrating with tourmates. There's Koroush, an Iranian kid from San Antonio who calls his bandVote Hezbollah; Sena, a Pakistani lesbian from Vancouver who fronts the all-girl Secret Trial Five; Marwan, whose Chicagobased group Al-Thawra pounds heavy metal beats into Arabic drones. And there, at the centre of it all, pumping his fists in the air and shouting Allah hu Akbar, is a white American convert named Michael Muhammad Knight.
The Islamic punk music scene would never have existed if it weren't for his 2003 novel, The Taqwacores. Melding the Arabic word for god-consciousness with the edge of hardcore punk, Michael imagined a community of Muslim radicals: Mohawked Sufis, riot grrrls in burqas with band patches, skinhead Shi'as. These characters were entirely fictional.
But the movement they inspired is very real.
Taqwacore: The Birth of Punk Islam follows Michael and his real-life kindred spirits on their first U.S. tour, where they incite a riot of young hijabi girls at the largest Muslim gathering in North America after Sena takes the stage. The film then travels with them to Pakistan, where members of the first Taqwacore band, The Kominas, bring punk to the streets of Lahore and Michael begins to reconcile his fundamentalist past with the rebel he has now become.
By stoking the revolution – against traditionalists in their own communities and against the clichés forced upon them from the outside – "we're giving the finger to both sides," says one Taqwacore. "Fuck you and fuck you."
(Source: taqwacore.com)


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In his message to President of Abkhazia Sergei Bagapsh, Dmitry Medvedev noted that 2010 marked the continuation of consistent joint work to form a bilateral legal framework and strengthen cooperation mechanisms between various agencies. "Today, Abkhazia is confidently following the path of developing its state sovereignty and democracy, broadening international contacts, and making a significant input into stabilising the situation in the Transcaucasian region," the message reads.
In a congratulatory message to President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan, the President of Russia emphasised, that "for our nations, which are bound by a close-knit alliance and strategic partnership, the past year marked an important phase in the gradual development of multifaceted cooperation, founded on mutual support on issues concerning both states' vital interests."
In a message to President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev,the President of Russia stressed that the past year will be inscribed in the history of Russian-Azerbaijani relations as an important milestone in developing multifaceted cooperation in all areas. Dmitry Medvedev gave a high assessment to the results of the third Caspian Summit, held in Baku: "A very important step was taken on the path to strengthening the format for meetings between the leaders of the five Caspian states. This is a truly unique platform for resolving current issues of legal status, security, and environmentally-based economic activities on the Caspian Sea and nearby areas."
In a message to President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, Dmitry Medvedev particularly noted that the two countries are united by historic traditions of friendship and good-neighbourly relations, and that "our duty is to treat this common patrimony with care, doing everything to strengthen and enrich mutually beneficial bilateral ties. I expect that in the coming year, Russian-Belarusian cooperation will develop dynamically for the good of our nations' citizens and in the interests of reinforcing the democratic foundations of our statehood. Successful performance of the Customs Union and the formation of a Common Economic Space are invoked to increase the efficacy of integrative cooperation, giving momentum to our countries' consistent progress within the framework of the Eurasian Economic Union."
In his messages wishing a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to Governor General of Canada David Johnston and Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper, the President of Russia expressed his high assessment of Canada's presidency of the G8 and G20, during which methods for overcoming the global financial crisis and ensuring economic stability were identified. Mr Medvedev expressed certainty that in the upcoming year, Russian-Canadian relations would be strengthened, benefiting both nations and their peoples, in the interest of stability and security throughout the world.
In a message wishing President of the People's Republic of China Hu Jintao a Happy New Year, Mr Medvedev emphasised the importance of the high intensity and trust-based nature of Russian-Chinese cooperation. "The past year was marked by important achievements in all key areas" of bilateral relations.
Mr Medvedev expressed certainty that joint, fruitful efforts would continue in 2011, a year that will mark the tenth anniversary of the Good-Neighbourly Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Russia and China, which serves as "a strong foundation for the long-term development of ties between our nations."
In his message to President of France Nicolas Sarkozy, Mr Medvedev emphasised his readiness to deepen productive cooperation between Russia and France in the bilateral format and on the international arena, including during France's presidency of the G8 and G20. The President of Russia expressed confidence that through joint efforts, the impressive level of momentum in the Russian-French partnership, which had been reached in the implementation of the nations' unique project – the Year of Russia in France and the Year of France in Russia – will be reinforced.
A congratulatory message to President of the Federal Republic of Germany Christian Wulff reads that "in 2010 much was done to expand cooperation between our countries, including through dialogue at the highest level." Dmitry Medvedev is confident that "in the upcoming year, we will also be successful in implementing the rich potential of cooperation for the good of the peoples of Russia and Germany, in the interest of stability and security on our continent."
In a message to Federal Chancellor of Germany Angela Merkel, the President of Russia emphasised that "in the past year, Russian-German relations, which are based on the principles of mutually beneficial strategic partnership, continued to develop dynamically for the benefit of the peoples of our states. I am certain that a key role in this process is traditionally played by our intensive and trust-based dialogue. In this regard, we had major milestones in the form of joint events celebrating symbolic anniversaries in our common history: the 65th anniversary of the defeat of Nazism and the 20th anniversary of the reunification of Germany." Mr Medvedev particularly emphasised the "constructive nature of the coordination of our foreign policies. I believe we can make particular note of the significant input into strengthening stability and security in the Euro-Atlantic region, which was made following the trilateral meeting in Deauville on October 18–19, 2010."
In a message to President of India Pratibha Patil, the President of Russia gave a high assessment of the sincere and trust-based nature of the relations between Russia and India, whose peoples have a long-standing mutual affinity, a vivid interest in one another's exceptionally rich cultural heritage, and aspirations toward fruitful multilateral cooperation. In particular, Mr Medvedev emphasised that he is "counting that the joint work to implement bilateral agreements will further enrich our friendly ties, which are a significant factor of stability and security in Asia and throughout the world."
Addressing Prime Minister of India Manmohan Singh, the President of Russia particularly noted the advancement of the strategic partnership between Russia and India to a qualitatively new level of privileged relations which was evidenced by substantial and productive talks during Dmitry Medvedev's recent visit to India, a sign of the enormous value of the time-tested Russian-Indian friendship. The message states that "in the present situation of shaping a new system of international relations, joint efforts of Russia and India resulted in the establishment of a solid legal foundation and effective mechanisms for further broadening and deepening of mutually beneficial cooperation in various areas."
In his message to President of the Italian Republic Giorgio Napolitano, Mr Medvedev emphasised that in the past year, Russian-Italian relations of partnership continued to develop in all areas, and that bilateral political dialogue remained intensive and substantial. "The upcoming year will be the Year of Russian Language and Culture in Italy and the Year of Italian Language and Culture in Russia. I expect that the major events we have planned will provide us with the opportunity to continue trust-based communication and joint work aimed at further strengthening friendship, mutual understanding, and cooperation between the peoples of Russia and Italy."
Wishing a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to Prime Minister of the Italian Republic Silvio Berlusconi,the President of Russia specifically noted that "the recent interstate consultations at the highest level were most successful. In Sochi, we touched base on practically all the most relevant current issues on our common agenda and outlined new objectives and goals that should take our partnership to a qualitatively new level." Mr Medvedev emphasised that Russia and Italy are cooperating actively on the global arena. The Italian side grants constant friendly support in dialogue with major regional associations such as the EU and NATO. In Dmitry Medvedev's opinion, Russia and Italy are also effectively cooperating within major international forums, particularly the G8 and G20.
Congratulating Prime Minister of Japan Naoto Kan, Mr Medvedev noted that bilateral cooperation had been further developed in 2010."I hope that in 2011 we will be able to work together to dynamically expand Russian-Japanese relations through broad and mutually beneficial trade and investment cooperation, the promotion of scientific and technological cooperation, and joint efforts to settle current international problems. I believe that this serves the interests of our peoples and is an important factor in achieving stability and security in the Asia-Pacific region," the message reads.
In his congratulatory message to HIM Emperor Akihito of Japan, the President of Russia wished His Majesty good health and well-being, and wished the people of Japan peace and prosperity.
In a New Year's message to President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev, Mr Medvedev emphasised that allied relations between Russia and Kazakhstan were strengthened significantly in 2010 in all areas with no exceptions, as evidenced by the high intensity of political dialogue, consistent implementation of major projects in key areas of economic cooperation, and the broadening of fruitful interregional and humanitarian ties. Dmitry Medvedev particularly stressed the steps taken to ensure the effective functioning of the Customs Union, the formation of the Common Economic Space, and the creation of the Eurasian Economic Union.
Dmitry Medvedev sent New Year's wishes to President of the Kyrgyz Republic for the Transition Period Roza Otunbayeva. The message notes that in the past year, Kyrgyzstan dealt with many difficult challenges. "During this time, Russia was together with the people of Kyrgyzstan, rendering all possible assistance and support. We are ready to continue jointly broadening and deepening the multidimensional bilateral cooperation that serves both nations' interests," the message stressed.
In a message to President of South Ossetia Eduard Kokoity, Mr Medvedev indicated that the efforts undertaken in 2010 have allowed Russia and South Ossetia to strengthen their relations of friendship and cooperation, and promoted the development of political cooperation and the continued formation of a framework of bilateral agreement. Dmitry Medvedev noted that South Ossetia is moving toward building an independent democratic state. The republic is resolving its socioeconomic problems, implementing serious infrastructure and housing projects, actively broadening international ties, and making a tangible input into strengthening stability and security in the Transcaucasian region. "We are ready to further fully cooperate with the people of South Ossetia," the President of Russia stated.
In his congratulatory message to President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, the Russian President noted that "in the past year, Russia and Tajikistan have made serious advances on the path toward an equitable strategic partnership and alliance, based on strong traditions of friendship and mutual respect. Relations between our states are defined by a mutual desire to expand bilateral ties."
Addressing President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, President Medvedev gave a high assessment to the current atmosphere of mutual understanding and trust in Russian-Turkmenistani relations: "During meetings in Turkmenistan and Russia, we confirmed a common desire to further implement major trade, economic, investment and humanitarian projects, and coordinate our policies in regional and international affairs."
Dmitry Medvedev wished President of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, emphasising the significance of consolidating Russian-Ukrainian relations. The President of Russia noted the importance of interstate and intergovernmental agreements signed in 2010, which open new opportunities for making interaction in all areas more effective, as well as the special role of the Russian-Ukrainian Interstate Commission in fulfilling this overall high-priority challenge.
In a message wishing Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, the President of Russia expressed certainty that in the upcoming year, fruitful cooperation between Russia and the United Kingdom will serve to strengthen relations of trust and mutual understanding between the peoples of Russia and the UK.
In his message to UK Prime Minister David Cameron, Dmitry Medvedev made note of the successful efforts in the past year to create the prerequisites for building constructive Russian-British dialogue. The President of Russia emphasised that this approach meets long-term interests of both nations and is well-perceived by their citizens. Mr Medvedev expressed certainty that David Cameron's upcoming visit to Russia in 2011 will be an important step in broadening the positive agenda in the bilateral relations and will give new momentum to developing ties in various sectors, as well as generally promoting the reinforcement of stability and security on the European continent.
In a congratulatory message to President of the United States Barack Obama, Mr Medvedev noted that "in the past year, our joint efforts allowed us to achieve significant results, ensuring positive momentum in Russian-American cooperation.
Our sincere and constructive dialogue promoted the resolution of highly important bilateral and international issues. We have signed the new START Treaty, a major fundamental agreement for global security. We have also initiated large-scale cooperation involving high technology and innovations. In addition, we have launched promising projects in various fields within the framework of the Presidential Commission.
I hope that in the coming year, we will continue intensive dialogue and progress consistently toward a pragmatic, long-term partnership between our nations."
In his message to President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov, Mr Medvedev noted that in 2010 relations between Russia and Uzbekistan were marked by active contacts and productive cooperation. Bilateral dialogue was supported by concrete actions aimed at the steady development of strategic partnership. Dmitry Medvedev expressed certainty that the high level of momentum in the two nations' multifaceted cooperation would be maintained in the upcoming year.
The President of Russia gave a high assessment to the open, mutually respectful relations, regular trust-based exchange of opinions with Uzbekistan on bilateral and regional issues, as well as current international problems. Mr Medvedev expressed confidence in the continuation of constructive joint efforts aimed at further strengthening bilateral Russian-Uzbekistani ties, security, and stability in Central Asia.


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A majority of U.S. adults – 62% – get news on social media, and 18% do so often, according to a new survey by Pew Research Center, conducted in association with the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. In 2012, based on a slightly different question, 49% of U.S. adults reported seeing news on social media.1
But which social media sites have the largest portion of users getting news there? How many get news on multiple social media sites? And to what degree are these news consumers seeking online news out versus happening upon it while doing other things?
As part of an ongoing examination of social media and news, Pew Research Center analyzed the scope and characteristics of social media news consumers across nine social networking sites. This study is based on a survey conducted Jan. 12-Feb. 8, 2016, with 4,654 members of Pew Research Center's American Trends Panel.
News plays a varying role across the social networking sites studied.2 Two-thirds of Facebook users (66%) get news on the site, nearly six-in-ten Twitter users (59%) get news on Twitter, and seven-in-ten Reddit users get news on that platform. On Tumblr, the figure sits at 31%, while for the other five social networking sites it is true of only about one-fifth or less of their user bases.
It is also useful to see how, when combined with the sites' total reach, the proportion of users who gets news on each site translates to U.S. adults overall. Facebook is by far the largest social networking site, reaching 67% of U.S. adults. The two-thirds of Facebook users who get news there, then, amount to 44% of the general population. YouTube has the next greatest reach in terms of general usage, at 48% of U.S. adults. But only about a fifth of its users get news there, which amounts to 10% of the adult population. That puts it on par with Twitter, which has a smaller user base (16% of U.S. adults) but a larger portion getting news there.
The audience overlap
To what extent do the various news audiences on social media overlap? Of those who get news on at least one of the sites, a majority (64%) get news on just one – most commonly Facebook. About a quarter (26%) get news on two of those sites. Just one-in-ten get news on three or more.
Seeking out news online
Differences also emerge in how active or passive each group of news users is in their online news habits more generally. YouTube, Facebook and Instagram news users are more likely to get their news online mostly by chance, when they are online doing other things. Alternatively, the portion of Reddit, Twitter and LinkedIn news users who seek out news online is roughly similar to the portion that happen upon it.3
The demographics of social media news consumers
A look at the demographic characteristics of news consumers on the five social networking sites with the biggest news audiences shows that, while there is some crossover, each site appeals to a somewhat different group. Instagram news consumers stand out from other groups as more likely to be non-white, young and, for all but Facebook, female. LinkedIn news consumers are more likely to have a college degree than news users of the other four platforms; Twitter news users are the second most likely. The demographics of other sites can be found in the Appendix.
Social news consumers and other news platforms
Social media news consumers still get news from a variety of other sources and to a fairly consistent degree across sites. For example, across the five sites with the biggest news audiences, roughly two-in-ten news users of each also get news from nightly network television news; about three-in-ten turn to local TV. One area that saw greater variation was news websites and apps. Roughly half of Twitter and LinkedIn news consumers also get news from news websites and apps, while that is true of one-third of Facebook and YouTube news users.
Changes over time
This report is an update to a 2013 report, with the addition of Snapchat and the removal of three sites: Pinterest, which has been shown to have a small portion of users who use it for news; Myspace, which has largely transitioned to a music site; and Google+, which through its recent transformations is being phased out as a social networking site. For the sites analyzed in both 2013 and 2016, a few significant differences emerge.
Of the sites we tracked since 2013, three of eight show an increase in the portion of users who get news there: Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.4
The full 2013-2016 trends for usage and demographics can be found in the Appendix.


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The Limestone District School Board is committed to developing strong relationships with parents, guardians, students and our broader school communities. Together, we create safe, comfortable, accepting and positive climates for teaching, learning and working. Therefore, it is the practice of the Board to address concerns in a sensitive, respectful and private manner.
Education is a shared experience involving home and school, and the Board believes that open communication strengthens relationships between families, schools and communities. We are guided by our core values (accountability, collaboration, fairness, inclusion, integrity, optimism, perseverance and respect) that support our mission and vision, and form the foundation of positive and productive relationships. The process of addressing public concerns is an opportunity to improve relationships. It is the practice of the Board that public concerns and questions should be dealt with at the level closest to the issue. In every situation, it is the Board's expectation that students, staff, and others involved, follow school and Board policies, procedures and practices. Should you have a concern, please follow these steps in sequence:
1. Gather as much information as possible and contact the classroom teacher to discuss your student's educational progress, ask a question or raise a concern. Most concerns can be resolved at this point through open dialogue and cooperation. 2. If the question or concern has not been resolved, please contact the Principal or Vice-Principal and request help in dealing with the matter. The Principal or Vice-Principal will gather facts from everyone involved to clarify the situation and work to resolve the matter as quickly as possible. 3. Then, if necessary, contact the Family of Schools Superintendent/Supervising Principal in charge of the school involved. The Superintendent will act as a facilitator in attempting to resolve your concern as it relates to Board policies, procedure and practices. Call 613-544-6920/1-800-267-0935 and ask for the name of the Superintendent of your student's school. 4. If the situation has not been resolved, and you feel strongly that the situation requires further consideration, you may wish to contact the Director of Education. At that time, your concern will be reviewed and may be directed to an other staff member for action. Call 613-544-6920/1-800-267-0935 and ask for the Director of Education. 5. If at this point you feel your concerns have not been adequately addressed, you may wish to contact your local Trustee. Trustees will direct any parent, guardian or community member to this process before they get involved.
The Board will continue to comply with all relevant legislation as it relates to privacy for all members of the community. Additionally, please do not hesitate to communicate your appreciation or your positive feedback to teachers, school staff, school administration, Board administration or Trustees when appropriate.
The Limestone District School Board is situated on traditional territories of the Anishinaabe & Haudenosaunee.


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Group picture of log drivers in Colton
Log drivers, circa 1900, Colton, NY.
Related article on logging here.
Permissions Statement
North Country Public Radio is not the owner or holder of copyright for any images within the North Country at Work archive. For uses of a photo (other than educational or non-commercial purposes), contact the photo's institution of origin.


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Def Leppard Launch 'Sin City' Vegas Residency: Set List, Video
Def Leppard kicked off their latest Las Vegas residency with a resounding performance last night at the Zappos Theater inside the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino.
Delivered on a stage that contained classic amp stacks and staircases along with screens and lasers, the 23-song set included material from throughout their career, with eight songs from Hysteria, four from Pyromania and two each from High 'n' Dry, Adrenalize and Def Leppard.
The band debuted two previously unperformed numbers – "Let Me Be" from X and "We Belong" from Def Leppard – and also included "Slang" for the first time since 2013; "Billy's Got a Gun," "Have You Ever Needed Someone So Bad" and "Now" for the first time since the early '00s; and set opener "Die Hard the Hunter" for the first time since 1992.
An acoustic session in the middle included four tracks. You can see videos and the set list from the show below.
Watch Def Leppard Perform 'Die Hard the Hunter'
Prior to the show, Joe Elliott promised "a really big production" while discussing Def Leppard's performance with the Las Vegas Weekly. "That's the whole point of doing these shows these days," the singer declared. "It has to be a visual feast."
This isn't the band's first extended Las Vegas run. Def Leppard previously enjoyed a successful Sin City residency in 2013, in which they performed their vaunted 1987 album Hysteria in its entirety. The band decided to go a different route for their latest Vegas stint, opting instead to mix up the material in their set list. In an interview with the Las Vegas Review Journal, drummer Rick Allen revealed that Def Leppard were inspired by another classic rock group's recent Vegas stay.
"We've known the Aerosmith guys for a long time, and I feel the way they're approaching their Vegas residency is really unique," Allen confessed. "We look at their production and go, 'How the hell are these guys making any money?' It's massive. So we're like, 'Okay', not wanting to compare ourselves or upstage what they're doing, but kind of taking a leaf out of their book and going, 'Let's make this really special.' We want people to go away with a lasting memory."
Watch Def Leppard Perform 'Promises'
Def Leppard Hits Vegas: The Sin City Residency will continue with dates stretching into September. Though some elements will stay the same from show to show, Elliott insists that each performance will be distinctive.
"We may not do the same show twice on this one," the singer admitted. "We've got a ton of songs we've not played for a long time and others we've never played live, so we're mixing those in with the ones that we couldn't get out of the room if we didn't play. We've never been scared of our hits. If you can't handle the responsibility of a hit, then don't write it."
Watch Def Leppard Perform 'Photograph'
Def Leppard Hits Vegas: The Sin City Residency, 8/14/19
1. "Die Hard the Hunter"
2. "Animal"
3. "Excitable"
4. "Promises"
5. "Foolin'"
6. "Slang"
7. "Billy's Got a Gun"
8. "Bringin' on the Heartbreak"
9. "Switch 625"
10. "Let Me Be the One"
11. "We Belong"
12. "Have You Ever Needed Someone So Bad"
13. "Two Steps Behind"
14. "Now"
15. "Rocket"
16. "Let's Get Rocked"
17. "Hysteria"
18. "Love Bites"
19. "Armageddon It"
20. "Pour Some Sugar on Me"
21. "Let's Go"
22. "Rock of Ages"
23. "Photograph"


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High resolution (1km) VIS satellite imagery from MTSAT-1R for the Australian region.
Images are courtesy of the US Navy, update at around 20 minutes past the UTC hour (during daylight hours)
and are archived for 14 days.
3/11/2014: Due to a server outage with where we source the satellite imagery from, imagery is currently unavailable. We are working to source a new feed as soon as we can.


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At Nocturnal Abstract we have an amazing, trendy, and unique selection of totes, backpacks, travel bags, duffel bags, and more. Like our other lines, the sophisticated trendy designs are taken directly from artist Nocturnal Abstract 222's original works which have been previewed in many art venues and magazines. Nocturnal Abstract originated this sophisticated, classy, trendy urban look. Our collection is affordable and made to order. Our designs are conversation pieces, just like the artwork when displayed in an art gallery. Our customers contact us regularly to tell us about the reactions that people give them when carrying these! The same will happen to you because the style is broad, unique and captivating. You are holding fine art as part of your outfit.
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Course Description:
Project management is especially critical for a data warehouse project. Without good management, projects are prone to being short on required resources. They are late, over budget, low quality and, most importantly, they don't meet expectations.
The data warehouse project manager must embrace new tasks and deliverables, develop a different working relationship with the users, and work in an environment that is far less defined than with traditional operational systems.
The project management course helps managers develop the skills they need to usher their projects through all phases of planning and implementation. It provides a solid basis on: test data, metadata planning, data stewardship, governance, backup planning, ROI measurement, documentation, support preparation, user training, communications planning, and other elements of a successful data warehouse.
What you will learn:
- How to identify business and technical drivers for the project.
- How to gather and prioritize business and technical requirements.
- How to scope out current and future project phases.
- The organizational and cultural issues, including staffing, roles, and responsibilities.
- How to manage user expectations for function, schedules, performance, and availability.
- How to identify critical success factors and mitigate risk.
- Data warehouse methodology, project planning, and project control.
- Effective change control.
- How to prepare for success in deployment, rollout and ongoing support.
- Best practices.
Who Should Attend:
This course is for business and technical managers who may be planning or managing a business intelligence application or data warehouse project, but is also suitable for anyone who wants to understand what is involved in managing either a business intelligence or data warehouse project. Typical attendees are:
- Data warehouse or business intelligence project managers, directors, and technical leads.
- Business sponsors, business users.
- Data warehouse architects.
Two day classroom instruction. Optional one-day workshop (see below).
Prerequisite Education or Experience
Introductory course for data warehousing or basic exposure to business intelligence or data warehousing projects.
Course Outline:
- Instructor & class introductions.
- Survey.
Section 1: What is BI & DW
(optional: if attendees need)
- Brief History Of Accessing, Reporting And Analyzing Data.
- Data to Information Lifecycle.
- Business Intelligence (BI) defined.
- Data Warehousing (DW) defined.
Section 2: DW Methodology
- Project methodologies.
- DW methodology.
- Differences between DW and traditional IT projects.
Section 3: DW Processes
- Sponsorship & Governance.
- Program Management.
- Project Management.
- Change Management.
- Data Quality & Data Management.
- Ongoing Administration & Support.
Section 4: DW Roles & Responsibilities
- Organizations.
- IT And Business Interaction.
- Context Of Roles & Responsibilities.
- IT And Business Roles.
- Skills And Training.
Section 5: DW Project Planning]
- DW Project Phases.
- Major DW Project Activities.
- Developing Scope & Building Business Case.
- Assembling Team.
Section 6: DW Project Planning
- DW Project Phases
- Major Activities & Deliverables
- Developing Scope & Building Business Case
- Staffing & Management
Section 7: DW Assessment Activities
- Requirements Gathering.
- Source Systems Analysis.
- Data Quality & Integrity Metrics.
Section 8: DW Data Design Activities
- Data Architecture.
- Data Staging.
- Data Modeling.
- Database Design.
Section 9: DW Data Preparation Activities
- Data Souring & Quality Requirements.
- ETL Architecture.
- Designing & Creating ETL Processes.
Section 10: DW BI Activities
- BI, Reporting & Analysis Requirements.
- BI Architecture.
- BI Tool Selection.
- Design & Build BI Processes.
- Business User Involvement.
Section 11: DW Testing, Deployment & Roll-out
- Testing.
- Deployment.
- Roll-out.
- Ongoing Administration & Maintenance
Section 12: Conclusions
- Highlights.
- References & Resources.
Section 13: Optional One-Day Workshop
You may choose to add an additional, custom, one-day consulting workshop in which the instructor will work with your team on a particular issue you are facing. This option will add one day of training plus up-front consulting work to prepare for the workshop.
Workshop Sessions:
- Review Course Materials in your Context.
- Plan by Exercise Different Portions of your Project.
- Discuss Best Practices and Factors Impacting your Project.


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U.S. Senate Resolution Potentially Changes Middle East Dynamics
A draft U.S. Senate resolution effectively portraying Saudi policy as detrimental to U.S. interests and values and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as "complicit" in the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, if adopted and implemented, potentially could change the dynamics of the region's politics and create an initial exit from almost a decade of mayhem, conflict and bloodshed.
The six-page draft also holds Prince Mohammed accountable for the devastating war in Yemen that has sparked one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, the failure to end the 17-month-old Saudi-United Arab Emirates-led economic and diplomatic boycott of Qatar, and the jailing and torture of Saudi dissidents and activists.
In doing so, the resolution confronts not only Prince Mohammed's policies but also by implication those of his closest ally, UAE Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed. The UAE was the first country that the Saudi leader visited after the Khashoggi killing.
By in effect challenging the position of king-in-waiting Prince Mohammed, the resolution raises the question whether some of his closest allies, including the UAE crown prince, will in the future want to be identified that closely with him.
Moreover, by demanding the release of activist Raif bin Muhammad Badawi, better known as Raif Badawi, and women's rights activists, the resolution further the challenges fundamentals of Prince Mohammed's iron-fisted repression of his critics, the extent of his proposed social reforms as part of his drive to diversify and streamline the Saudi economy, and the kingdom's human rights record.
A 34-year-old blogger who named his website Free Saudi Liberals, Mr. Badawi was barred from travel and had his assets frozen in 2009, arrested in 2012, and sentenced to 10 years in prison and 1,000 lashes for insulting Islam. His sister, Samar Badawi, a women's rights activist, was detained earlier this year. Mr. Badawi's wife and children were granted asylum and citizenship in Canada.
A diplomatic row that stunned many erupted in August when Saudi Arabia expelled the Canadian ambassador after the foreign ministry in Ottawa demanded in a tweet the release of Ms. Badawi and other activists.
Prince Mohammed and Saudi Arabia, even prior to introduction of the Senate resolution, were discovering that the Khashoggi killing had weakened the kingdom internationally and had made it more vulnerable to pressure.
Talks in Sweden between the Saudi-backed Yemeni government and Houthi rebels to end the war is the most immediate consequence of the kingdom's changing position.
The U.S. Senate resolution is unprecedented in the scope and harshness of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Saudi Arabia.
While the resolution is likely to spark initial anger among some of Prince's Mohammed's allies, it nevertheless, if adopted and/or implemented, could persuade some like UAE crown prince Mohammed to rethink their fundamental strategies.
The relationship between the two Mohammeds constituted a cornerstone of the UAE leader's strategy to achieve his political, foreign policy and defense goals.
These include projecting the Emirates as a guiding light of cutting-edge Arab and Muslim modernity; ensuring that the Middle East fits the crown prince's autocratic, anti-Islamist mould; and enabling the UAE, described by U.S. defense secretary Jim Mattis as 'Little Sparta,' to punch above its weight politically, diplomatically and militarily.
To compensate for the Emirates' small size, Prince Mohammed opted to pursue his goals in part by working through the Saudi royal court. In leaked emails, UAE ambassador to Washington Yousef al-Otaiba, a close associate of Prince Mohammed, said of the Saudi crown prince that "I don't think we'll ever see a more pragmatic leader in that country."
Mr. Al-Otaiba went on to say: "I think in the long term we might be a good influence on KSA (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), at least with certain people there. Our relationship with them is based on strategic depth, shared interests, and most importantly the hope that we could influence them. Not the other way around."
The impact of the Senate resolution and what it means for the U.S. policy will to a large extent depend on the politics of the differences between the U.S. Congress and President Donald J. Trump who has so far sought to shield Mohammed bin Salman.
To further do so, Mr. Trump, with or without the resolution, would likely have to pressure Saudi Arabia to give him something tangible to work with such as an immediate release of imprisoned activists followed by a resolution of the Qatar crisis as well as some indication that the Yemen peace negotiations are progressing.
Whichever way, the fallout of the Khashoggi killing, culminating in unprecedented Congressional anger against Prince Mohammed and the kingdom, is likely to have significant consequences not only for the Saudi crown prince but potentially also for the strategy of his UAE counterpart.
That in turn could create light at the end of the Middle East's tunnel of almost a decade of volatility and violent and bloody conflict that has been driven by Saudi and UAE assertiveness in countering dissent at home and abroad in the wake of the 2011 popular Arab revolts as well as Iran that has played its part in countries like Syria and Yemen in fuelling destruction and bloodshed.