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U.S. Delegation to OSCE PA Drives International Action against Human Trafficking, Discrimination, and Anti-SemitismFriday, July 08, 2016
WASHINGTON—Seven members of Congress traveled to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA) Annual Session in Tbilisi, Georgia last week to demonstrate the U.S. commitment to the principles of the Helsinki Final Act, including respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. At the Annual Session, which brought together nearly 300 parliamentarians from 54 of the 57 OSCE participating States, the U.S. lawmakers introduced several successful resolutions and amendments targeting current challenges facing the OSCE region, ranging from human trafficking to discrimination and anti-Semitism to the abuse of Interpol mechanisms to target political opponents and activists. The delegation included Helsinki Commission Chairman Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04), Co-Chairman Sen. Roger Wicker (MS), Commissioner Rep. Robert Aderholt (AL-04), Commissioner Rep. Randy Hultgren (IL-14), Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-08), Rep. Richard Hudson (NC-08), and Rep. David Schweikert (AZ-06). Rep. Aderholt currently serves as a vice-president of the OSCE PA, while Sen. Wicker was re-elected to a third term as chair of the OSCE PA Committee on Political Affairs and Security, also known as the First Committee, during the annual meeting. Chairman Smith led international lawmakers in battling international human trafficking and child sex tourism through a successful resolution calling on all OSCE participating States to raise awareness of sexual exploitation of children in travel and tourism (SECTT), especially by convicted pedophiles, business travelers, and tourists. Chairman Smith, who serves as the OSCE PA Special Representative on Human Trafficking Issues, also hosted a July 3 briefing on U.S. efforts to prevent SECTT through a new international reciprocal notification system – known as International Megan's Law – that facilitates timely communications among law enforcement agencies. A second U.S. resolution, authored by OSCE PA Special Representative for Anti-Semitism, Racism and Intolerance and Helsinki Commission Ranking Sen. Ben Cardin (MD), called for action against the anti-Semitic and racist violence sweeping across North America and Europe. The resolution, which passed overwhelmingly, urged members of the OSCE to develop a plan of action to implement its long-standing body of tolerance and non-discrimination agreements, called for international efforts to address racial profiling, and offered support for increased efforts by political leaders to stem the tide of hate across the region. The resolution was fielded by Commissioner Hultgren. Chairman Smith also called on participating States to more effectively prevent and combat violence against European Jewish communities through the introduction of two amendments to the resolution of the OSCE PA General Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions (also known as the Third Committee). His first amendment called for the explicit recognition of the increase in anti-Semitic attacks in the region, while the second encouraged participating States to formally recognize and partner with Jewish community groups. Responding the abuse of Interpol systems for politically motivated harassment by Russia and other members of the OSCE, Co-Chairman Wicker authored a successful amendment to the First Committee resolution, which called on participating States to stop the inappropriate placement of Red Notices and encouraged Interpol to implement mechanisms preventing politically motivated abuse of its legitimate services. The amendment was fielded by Rep. Hudson. During the Annual Session, members of the delegation also offered strong support for important resolutions fielded by other countries, including one by Ukraine on human rights in illegally occupied Crimea and another on the 30th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear accident. They voted for a highly relevant resolution on combating corruption fielded by Sweden, and helped to defeat a Russian resolution attacking the Baltic States, Poland and Ukraine in the context of combating neo-Nazism. U.S. delegates indicated their support for the work of attending Azerbaijani human rights activists, and met with attending members of the Israeli Knesset. While in Tbilisi, the group also met with several high-ranking Georgian officials, including Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili; Tedo Japaridze, Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, Parliament of Georgia; Mikheil Janelidze, Georgian Minister of Foreign Affairs; and David Bakradze, Georgian Minister of European and Euro-Atlantic Integration.
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Chairman Smith Leads International Legislators against Human Trafficking, Child Sex TourismMonday, July 04, 2016
WASHINGTON—The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly passed a resolution authored by Helsinki Commission Chairman Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) against international human trafficking and child sex tourism. The resolution was passed at the 2016 annual session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA), and has an agenda-setting effect for the 57-member intergovernmental organization. Smith, who leads the U.S. Delegation to this year's OSCE PA Annual Session, introduced a resolution calling on all OSCE participating States to work with the private sector and civil society to raise awareness of sexual exploitation of children in travel and tourism (SECTT), especially by convicted pedophiles, business travelers, and tourists. The resolution also urges all OSCE participating States to enact laws allowing them to prosecute their citizens and legal permanent residents for child sexual exploitation committed abroad, and to strengthen international law enforcement cooperation to ensure that nations know about travel by convicted pedophiles prior to their arrival. "More children than ever before are being exploited – child sex tourism is soaring while protection lags," said Chairman Smith. "We must work together to protect children from convicted pedophiles and opportunistic predators who exploit local children with impunity during their travels abroad. Prevention and prosecution should go hand in hand." In addition to introducing the SECTT resolution, Chairman Smith hosted a July 3 briefing on U.S. efforts to prevent SECTT through a new international reciprocal notification system – known as International Megan's Law – that facilitates timely communications among law enforcement agencies. "Child predators thrive on secrecy – a secrecy that allows them to commit heinous crimes against the weakest and most vulnerable," said Chairman Smith. "Recent changes in the laws of the United States and partner countries are putting child predators on the radar when they travel internationally, but much remains to be done." Chairman Smith has served as OSCE PA Special Representative on Human Trafficking Issues since 2004. His efforts to raise the profile of the human trafficking problem in the OSCE region are reflected in the 2013 Addendum to the OSCE Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Human Beings, and have prompted other parliamentarians to take the lead in addressing human trafficking in their respective capitals. Chairman Smith first raised the issue of human trafficking at the 1999 St. Petersburg Annual Session, the first time it appeared on the OSCE agenda. Since then, he has introduced or cosponsored a supplementary item and/or amendments on trafficking at each annual session of the OSCE PA, including on issues such as sex tourism prevention, training of the transportation sector in victim identification and reporting, corporate responsibility for trafficking in supply chains, and special protections for vulnerable populations. In addition to authoring the 2016 International Megan's Law to Prevent Child Exploitation and Other Sexual Crimes through Advanced Notification of Traveling Sex Offenders, he authored the landmark U.S. Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 and its 2003 and 2005 reauthorizations. Chairman Smith co-chairs the United States Congressional Human Trafficking Caucus.
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Chairman Smith Champions Improved Security for European Jewish Communities at Annual Meeting of OSCE ParliamentariansSunday, July 03, 2016
WASHINGTON—At the 2016 OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA) Annual Session, meeting in Tbilisi, Georgia this week, Helsinki Commission Chair Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) today called on participating States to more effectively prevent and combat violence against European Jewish communities in the face of increasing anti-Semitic violence in the region. "Violent anti-Semitic attacks are on the rise in several European countries – and there is a lot more we can do to stop it," said Chairman Smith, who led the U.S. delegation to the event. "European police and security forces should be partnering with Jewish community security groups, and the United States government should be working with the European governments to encourage this. The terrorist threat to European Jewish communities is more deadly than ever. We must act to prevent a repeat of the horrific massacres of Paris and Copenhagen." Chairman Smith offered two amendments to the draft resolution of the OSCE PA General Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions (also known as the Third Committee). His first amendment called for the explicit recognition of the increase in frequency, scope, and severity of anti-Semitic attacks in the OSCE region, while the second called on participating States to formally recognize and partner with Jewish community groups to strengthen crisis prevention, preparedness, mitigation, and responses related to anti-Semitic attacks. Both amendments reflect consultations with and requests from European Jewish communities. Chairman Smith has a long record as a leader in the fight against anti-Semitism. He co-chairs the Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Anti-Semitism in the U.S. House of Representatives and authored the provisions of the U.S. Global Anti-Semitism Review Act of 2004 that created the Office to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism within the U.S. State Department. In 2015, he authored House Resolution 354, a blueprint for strengthening the safety and security of European Jewish communities. Following his landmark 2002 hearing on combating the escalation of anti-Semitic violence in Europe, "Escalating Anti-Semitic Violence in Europe," he led a congressional drive to place the issue of combating anti-Semitism at the top of the OSCE agenda. As part of this effort he authored supplemental resolutions on combating anti-Semitism, which were adopted at the 2002, 2003, and 2004 Annual Sessions of the OSCE PA. In 2004 the OSCE adopted new norms for its participating States on fighting anti-Semitism. Chairman Smith is a founding member of the the Inter-Parliamentary Coalition for Combating Anti-Semitism (ICCA), where he also serves on the steering committee. In the 1990s, he chaired Congress's first hearings on anti-Semitism and in the early 1980s, his first trips abroad as a member of Congress were to the former Soviet Union, where he fought for the release of Jewish "refuseniks."
NATO's Warsaw Summit and the Future of European SecurityThursday, June 23, 2016
This briefing, conducted two weeks prior to the NATO summit in Warsaw, discussed the prospects and challenges expected to factor into the negotiations. Key among these were Russian aggression and NATO enlargement, cybersecurity, and instability along NATO's southern border. Mr. Pisarski's testimony focused mainly on the challenge posed by Russian aggression and the role played by NATO's partners in maintaining stability in Eastern Europe. Dr. Binnendijk commented on seven areas he argued the Alliance should make progress on at the Warsaw summit, centering mainly around unity, deterrent capability, and the Alliance's southern strategy. Rear Admiral Gumataotao provided a unique insight into NATO Allied Command Transformation's core tasks and their expectations for Warsaw. The question and answer period featured a comment from Georgian Ambassador Gegeshidze, who spoke about his country's stake in the Summit's conclusions in the context of the ongoing Russian occupation of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
OSCE Foreign Ministers Meet in BelgradeFriday, January 15, 2016
Serbia's year-long chairmanship of the OSCE culminated in Belgrade in the annual meeting of the OSCE Ministerial Council on December 3 and 4, 2015. Key issues addressed in the context of Ministerial discussions included: Ongoing efforts to de-escalate the Russia-Ukraine crisis and the need for Russia to fully implement the Minsk Agreements. Reaffirmation of the Helsinki Final Act and subsequent commitments and the comprehensive nature of security (i.e., respect for fundamental freedoms within a state has an impact on the security between states). The assault on human dignity and human rights, including through terrorist attacks, the continued rollback on rights and freedoms in the OSCE area, and the refugee and migration crisis. Secretary of State John Kerry led the U.S. delegation, which also included Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland; Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Robert Berschinski; Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Central Asia Daniel N. Rosenblum; and Helsinki Commission Senior Senate Staff Representative Ambassador David T. Killion. The atmosphere was strained, as tensions between Ukraine and Russia, Russia and Turkey, and Armenia and Azerbaijan spilled over into the negotiations. As Russia blocked virtually all decisions on human rights, as well as on the migration crisis and on gender issues, only a handful of documents were adopted. Successful declarations addressed recent terrorist attacks in the OSCE region, combating violent extremism that leads to terrorism, and addressing the illicit drug trade.
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Helsinki Commission Chair Honored by American Hungarian FederationFriday, October 23, 2015
WASHINGTON—The American Hungarian Federation honored Helsinki Commission Chair Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) on October 22 with its Colonel Commandant Michael Kovats Medal of Freedom, awarded to outstanding individuals to recognize their life's achievements, dedication to freedom and democracy, promotion of transatlantic relations, and meritorious contribution to society. "I am delighted to have received the Kovats award, which represents the long-standing commitment of Hungarian Americans to the United States and is a testament to the special ties between our two nations," said Rep. Smith. "Colonel Kovats gave his life for the cause of freedom during the American Revolution, and truly embodied the courage and patriotism of the Hungarian people. This courage was reflected during the 1956 Hungarian Revolution against the Soviet-installed communist dictatorship, which remains a model of patriotism, heroism and resistance against tyranny." Rep. Dan Lipinski (IL-03) was also honored with the Kovats Medal by the American Hungarian Federation, which was founded in 1906. It is the largest Hungarian-American umbrella organization in the United States and among the oldest ethnic organizations in the country. "Rep. Smith is a strong supporter of good bilateral relations with Hungary, and recognizes that the U.S. has a strategic interest in maintaining good ties with that country," said Frank Koszorús, Jr., National President of the American Hungarian Federation. "He steadfastly promotes human rights and democracy, and has traveled to Budapest to better gauge what is happening on the ground and to understand the country, its people, its hopes and fears, and its accomplishments over the centuries." Also attending Thursday's event, which marked the 59th anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution of 1956, were Hungarian Ambassador Réka Szemerkényi, Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25), and Rep. Dennis Ross (FL-15). "It was in the month of October, on the twenty-third day in 1956, that the small Eastern European nation of Hungary rose up in a revolution against the Soviet Union that represented the first major challenge to its military dominion since World War II… this was David facing down Goliath in the modern era, and as such it remains and will remain an inspiration to freedom loving people everywhere," said Dr. Louis S. Segesvary of the American Hungarian Federation. "Hungary and the United States share a similar past. Both risked revolutions against the greatest powers of their times." "Almost 60 years after the Hungarian revolution, and more than 25 years after the regime change, it is more important than ever for Hungarians and Americans alike to remember that communism was not a beautiful utopia," said Marion Smith, Executive Director of the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation, which co-hosted the program. "It was and is an ideology that enables tyranny. Communist regimes everywhere systematically killed a portion of their own people as a matter of policy in peacetime, denied citizens their basic rights, robbed them of their food and of their labor, and tore families apart in maintaining a police state."
Bipartisan Congressional Delegation Represents US at OSCE Parliamentary Assembly; Also Visits Ukraine, Czech RepublicMonday, August 17, 2015
Forty years after the signing of the Helsinki Final Act established the precursor to today's Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), five members of the Helsinki Commission and four other members of Congress traveled to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Annual Session in Helsinki to demonstrate the U.S. commitment to confronting Russian aggression in Ukraine and elsewhere. Led by Commission Co-Chairman Senator Roger F. Wicker (MS), the bicameral, bipartisan delegation organized by the Helsinki Commission included Commission Chairman Representative Chris Smith (NJ- 04); House Commissioners Robert B. Aderholt (AL-04), Steve Cohen (TN-09) and Alan Grayson (FL-09); and Representatives Gwen Moore (WI-04), Michael Fitzpatrick (PA-08), Richard Hudson (NC-08) and Ruben Gallego (AZ-07). Before attending the Annual Session from July 5 to 7, several members of the delegation also visited Ukraine and the Czech Republic. A central concern to the delegation throughout the trip was Russia's restrictions on democracy at home and aggression in Ukraine, along with Russia's threat to European security.
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Chairman Smith and Rep. McGovern Introduce "Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act"Friday, January 30, 2015
WASHINGTON—Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04), Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Rep. Jim McGovern (MA-02), today introduced the "Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act" (H.R. 624). The bill prohibits foreign human rights offenders and corrupt officials operating anywhere in the world from entering into the United States and blocks their U.S. assets. It effectively globalizes and strengthens the "Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law Accountability Act of 2012," which was directed at individuals and entities from Russia. "The 'Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act' is a game-changer, and demonstrates America's commitment to protecting human rights worldwide," said Chairman Smith. "We are sending a message to the world's worst human rights violators: we will shine a spotlight on your crimes. We will deny your visas. We will freeze your assets. No matter who you are or how much money you have, you won't be enjoying the fruits of your misdeeds by visiting the United States or taking advantage of our financial institutions." "We have made important progress in the last few years," Rep. McGovern said. "But since the introduction of the original Magnitsky Act, human rights defenders and anti-corruption activists worldwide have urged us to pass a law that covers similar violations in countries other than Russia. Through the Global Magnitsky Act, we can better standardize our approach to human rights violators and provide clear guidance to the executive branch on how we expect these perpetrators to be held accountable." "Conscripting child soldiers, kidnapping political opponents, and brutalizing people based on their religion are horrifying acts for which people must be held accountable – and this bill will do it," said Chairman Smith. "The earlier Magnitsky Act enjoyed overwhelmingly bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate. I expect the Global Magnitsky Act to move forward with the same level of commitment in both chambers, and on both sides of the aisle." Earlier this week, Senators Ben Cardin (MD) and John McCain (AZ) introduced similar legislation in the Senate, which also applies worldwide and employs visa bans and property freezes. Unique aspects of the House bill include the requirement that the President impose sanctions if he or she determines that a foreign person has committed gross human rights offenses. The bill also permits the President to sanction perpetrators regardless of whether the victims were exercising or defending basic human rights; requires that the annual Global Magnitsky List be released each year on Human Rights Day; and directs the Comptroller General to assess and report on implementation. Both the "Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act" and the earlier "Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law Accountability Act of 2012" were inspired by Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky, who was arrested and imprisoned by the Russian government following his investigation into fraud involving Russian officials. He was beaten to death by prison guards in 2009 after being held in torturous conditions for 11 months without trial. Summary: The "Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act" This act requires the President to publish and update a list of foreign persons or entities that the President determines are responsible, and who the President has sanctioned, for gross violations of internationally recognized human rights – including extrajudicial killings, torture, enforced disappearances, and prolonged, arbitrary detention – or significant corruption. Known as the Global Magnitsky List, the list will be due annually on December 10 (Human Rights Day). Although the bill directs the President to prioritize cases where the victims were seeking to exercise or defend internationally recognized human and rights and freedoms, like freedom of religious, assembly, and expression, or expose illegal government activity, the President can act regardless of the victim. Sanctions on these individuals and entities will include: Prohibiting or revoking U.S. visas or other entry documentation for foreign individuals. Freezing and prohibiting U.S. property transactions of a foreign individual or entity if such property and property interests are in the United States; come within the United States; or are in, or come within, the control of a U.S. person or entity. This act also requires the Comptroller General of the United States to assess the implementation of the law and report to Congress, so that Congress can ensure it is being executed fully.
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U.S. Helsinki Commission Chair Notes Challenges, Need for Action on International Human Rights DayWednesday, December 10, 2014
WASHINGTON—To mark International Human Rights Day, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (MD), Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, issued the following statement: "It has been a difficult year for those of us who are active in human rights in the OSCE region. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has flagrantly violated the principles enshrined in the Helsinki Final Act, exacerbated regional security, and further revealed the weaknesses of Russia's own democracy . The space for civil society – the guardians of the rule of law and fundamental freedoms – is shrinking in more than a few of our participating States, including Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary, breeding abuse of power and corruption. We have been appalled by violent anti-Semitic attacks and a rising tide of intolerance across the OSCE region against minorities and other vulnerable populations. Uzbekistan holds the world's longest-imprisoned journalist, who languishes alongside of thousands of political prisoners. "Clearly, the challenges for the countries of the OSCE are as great as ever. We look forward to supporting Serbia's 2015 chairmanship of the OSCE, which offers an opportunity both for the country and for the organization. As the effective successor to the only country to be suspended from the Helsinki process, Serbia is a concrete example of how a country can turn things around and how the OSCE can contribute. "In particular, we urge Serbia to build on decisions adopted at last week's Basel Ministerial Council on combating anti-Semitism and corruption. These are challenges faced by virtually every OSCE participating State. We hope that Serbia will move forward with conviction to support these initiatives and to defend and advocate for the Helsinki principles throughout the region." December 10, International Human Rights Day, celebrates the adoption of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights by the UN General Assembly on December 10, 1948.
Combating Corruption in the OSCE Region: The Link between Security and Good GovernanceWednesday, November 19, 2014
Combating corruption is increasingly recognized as the critical factor in ensuring long-term security, because corruption creates fertile ground for social upheaval and instability. The change in government in Ukraine in 2014 was a prime example of how corruption can fuel legitimate popular discontent. Although the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has created new tools to address corruption, tackling the problem requires more than raising awareness and sharing best practices. In many OSCE participating States, systemic issues including lack of media freedom, lack of political will, and lack of an independent judiciary contribute substantially to persistent high-level and low-level corruption. The hearing drew attention to the work of the OSCE in combating corruption in all 57 participating States, with a particular emphasis on the need to build effective institutions and the important role played by civil society in combatting corruption.
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Helsinki Commission to Hold Hearing on Combating CorruptionWednesday, November 12, 2014
WASHINGTON—The Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the U.S. Helsinki Commission, today announced the following hearing: "Combating Corruption in the OSCE Region: The Link between Security and Good Governance" Wednesday, November 19, 2014 10:00AM U.S. Capitol Visitor Center Room SVC 203-202 Combating corruption is increasingly recognized as the critical factor in ensuring long-term security, because corruption creates fertile ground for social upheaval and instability. The change in government in Ukraine earlier this year is a prime example of how corruption can fuel legitimate popular discontent. Although the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has created new tools to address corruption, tackling the problem requires more than raising awareness and sharing best practices. In many OSCE participating States, systemic issues including lack of media freedom, lack of political will, and lack of an independent judiciary contribute substantially to persistent high-level and low-level corruption. The hearing will draw attention to the work of the OSCE in combating corruption in all 57 participating States, with a particular emphasis on the need to build effective institutions and the important role played by civil society in combatting corruption. The following witnesses are scheduled to testify: Halil Yurdakul Yigitgüden, Coordinator for Economic and Environmental Affairs, OSCE Khadija Ismayilova, Host of "Isden Sonra" ("After Work"), RFE/RL Azerbaijani Service Shaazka Beyerle, Visiting Scholar at the Center for Transatlantic Relations, School of Advanced International Studies, Johns Hopkins University, and Senior Advisor with the International Center on Nonviolent Conflict Anders Åslund, Senior Fellow, Peterson Institute for International Economics
Annual OSCE Human Rights Meeting Dominated by Russia and UkraineThursday, November 06, 2014
Representatives of governments and civil society from OSCE participating States met in Warsaw, Poland, from September 22 to October 3, 2014 for the annual Human Dimension Implementation Meeting (HDIM). The meeting was organized by the OSCE office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) under the leadership of its newly-appointed Director Michael Link. This year's annual OSCE human dimension implementation meeting drew 1,225 participants from 53 countries, including 700 NGOs. There were an unprecedented 82 side events on specific countries or issues. The session on tolerance and nondiscrimination was the most oversubscribed of the three-hour sessions with 85 people vying for the speaker's list. Other specific topics for HDIM sessions included violence against women, rights of migrants and right of national minorities. In this issue: About the U.S. HDIM Delegation Russia Takes Propaganda Campaign to Warsaw OSCE Ambassadors Visit Auschwitz Civil Society Speaks Up
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Helsinki Commission on Opening of Europe's Largest Human Rights MeetingMonday, September 22, 2014
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (MD), Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission) and Representative Chris Smith (NJ-04), Co-Chairman of the Commission, released the following statement ahead of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) annual high-level meeting on human rights. From September 22-October 3, civil society and government representatives of OSCE participating States will gather in Warsaw, Poland, for the annual Human Dimension Implementation Meeting to discuss compliance with the full range of OSCE human dimension commitments, with special focus on migrant rights, minority issues, and combating violence against women and children. "The Human Dimension Implementation Meeting takes place while Russian aggression in Ukraine continues to threaten basic OSCE principles. I expect this will be a major focus of the meeting, as well as Russian actions at home that are cynically rolling back the ability of civil society to comment on or contribute to how that country functions," said Chairman Cardin. "I am pleased that Professor Brian Atwood will head the U.S. Delegation at this critical time. The promises OSCE states made to one another almost 25 years ago, that respect for human rights within any country is a matter of concern for all states, has guided us and must continue to do so. I also welcome the leadership of the U.S. Ambassador to the OSCE, Daniel Baer, who will be taking a high-level study group to the Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp." Co-Chairman Smith said, "The Russian government's gross human rights violations in Ukraine must be a central topic of discussion at the Human Dimension meeting. HDIM is an indispensable tool for holding states accountable to OSCE commitments and most effective when both government and civil society representatives have equal opportunity to debate each state's human rights record. One issue that states and civil society must discuss this year in Warsaw, and at the OSCE "Berlin Plus 10" anti-Semitism conference in November, is the alarming rise of anti-Semitic incidents in the OSCE region. The OSCE must also continue to combat trafficking in human beings, including through fulfilling commitments taken last year to train transportation workers to identify possible victims and to improve law enforcement information sharing internationally on potential sex tourists. Commitments are made to be kept."
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Commission to Hold Hearing with OSCE Human Rights AppointeesTuesday, July 15, 2014
WASHINGTON—Today the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission) announced the following hearing: Anti-Semitism, Racism and Discrimination in the OSCE Region Tuesday, July 22, 2014 10:00 a.m. Dirksen Senate Office Building Room 562 Following an escalation of anti-Semitic hate crimes a decade ago, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) intensified efforts to combat prejudice and discrimination throughout Eurasia and North America. Since 2004, three Personal Representatives have been appointed annually by the OSCE Chair-in-Office (currently Switzerland) to address anti-Semitism; racism, xenophobia, and discrimination including against Christians and members of other religions; and intolerance and discrimination against Muslims. In an official joint visit to the United States, the Personal Representatives will address progress and ongoing challenges in the OSCE region a decade after the creation of their positions. The following witnesses are scheduled to testify: Rabbi Andrew Baker, Personal Representative on Combating Anti-Semitism Professor Talip Küçukcan, Personal Representative on Combating Intolerance and Discrimination against Muslims Alexey Avtonomov, Personal Representative on Combating Racism, Xenophobia and Discrimination, also focusing on Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians and Members of Other Religions
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U.S. Helsinki Commission Commemorates Romani Revolt at Auschwitz, Deportation of Hungarian JewsFriday, May 16, 2014
WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (MD), Chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission) marked the 70th anniversary of the mass deportation of Hungary's Jews and the Romani revolt at Auschwitz death camp in Nazi-occupied Poland. "On May 16, 70 years ago, 6,000 Roma at Auschwitz used improvised weapons to resist efforts to transport them from their barracks to the gas chambers. Sadly, their desperate and heroic efforts only delayed their mass murder," said Chairman Cardin. "I am appalled," he continued, "when government officials, sometimes at the highest level, characterize Roma as criminals or 'unadaptable' using stereotypes that are reminiscent of Nazi racial theories. Remembering and teaching about Romani experiences during the Holocaust is critical in combating anti-Roma prejudices today." Approximately 3,000 of those who participated in the Romani revolt were sent to Buchenwald and Ravensbruck concentration camps as forced labor, where most of them died. On August 2-3, 1944, the so-called 'Gypsy Family Camp' was liquidated and the remaining 2,879 Romani men, women and children were sent to the gas chambers. Altogether, 23,000 Romani people from 11 countries were deported to Auschwitz and approximately 19,000 perished. Some died as a result of inhumane medical experiments by Dr. Joseph Mengele. "This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the start of the final wave of Hungary's war-time deportation of Jews," noted Chairman Cardin. "Plans to empty the Romani camp at Auschwitz were, in fact, intended to make room for Jews arriving from Hungary." Anti-Semitic legislation was introduced in Hungary with the 1920 Numerus Clausus, which established limits on the number of Jewish university students. In 1941, more than 17,000 Jews were deported from Hungary to German-occupied Kamenets-Podolsk, where they were executed. Between May 15 and July 9, 1944, 437,402 Hungarian Jews were deported in the largest deportation of Jews to Auschwitz in the shortest period of time from any country. One of every three Jews who died at Auschwitz was from Hungary. Cardin concluded, "I welcome the participation of Czech Prime Minister Sobotka in the memorial service held on May 10 at the site of the concentration camp for Roma at Lety. I urge the Czech Government to take steps to reflect the historic significance of this site for Romani survivors and their families everywhere." Lety was the site of one of two concentration camps for Roma in the war-time Czech Republic. The construction of a large pork processing plant on the site during the communist period has generated continuing criticism. The Helsinki Commission supported the transfer of microfilm copies of its archives – the only known complete surviving archives of a Romani concentration camp – to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in 2000. On September 18, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial will hold a public symposium on new research regarding Roma and the Holocaust.
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Cardin, Colleagues Ask Kerry To Urge NATO, OSCE To End All Defense Contracts With RussiaTuesday, April 15, 2014
WASHINGTON– In a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD), Chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission and, a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, – joined by 10 of his colleagues – asked the State Department to urge NATO member countries and participating states of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) to end all defense contracts with Russia in response to the country's illegal annexation of Crimea and violation of Ukrainian sovereignty. Cardin was joined by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Daniel Coats (R-Ind.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), David Vitter (R-La.), and Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.) and U.S. Representatives Louise Slaughter (D-N.Y.), Joe Pitts (R-Pa.), and Michael Burgess (R-Texas). "We believe the United States must show leadership by terminating all defense contracts with Russia and ask that you strongly encourage our NATO allies and OSCE participating states to take similar actions," the members of Congress wrote. "We urge you to lead the coordination among NATO and OSCE to halt trade involving military equipment with Russia immediately. We believe this is a crucial step in reestablishing a deterrent against further Russian aggression and strengthening the impact of our targeted economic sanctions against Russia." Text of the letter is below. April 14, 2014 The Honorable John Kerry Secretary of State United States Department of State 2201 C Street Northwest Washington, D.C. 20520 Dear Secretary Kerry: We write to express our support for NATO's decision to suspend military and civilian cooperation with Russia. We also ask that you further urge both NATO member countries and participating states of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) to work cooperatively to cease all trade involving military equipment with Russia in response to Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea and violation of Ukrainian sovereignty. This would be a forceful next step by both international organizations (of which the United States is a member) to affirm that there is no more business as usual when it comes to bilateral trade of military equipment given Russia's hostile actions. As you are aware, two decades ago the Partnership for Peace program was implemented to foster trust between NATO member countries and the member states of the former Soviet Union, and to acknowledge a shared political commitment to creating lasting and inclusive peace in the Euro-Atlantic area. This integration with the member states of the former Soviet Union was predicated on shared values and common obligations to uphold international law. Likewise, the Helsinki Final Act, which has been signed by 57 OSCE nations, including the United States, affirmed our collective commitment to sovereign equality, respect for human rights, and fundamental freedoms. Russia violated these shared principles by disregarding its treaty obligations under the bilateral Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Partnership between Ukraine and the Russian Federation. We should immediately halt the trade in military equipment now that Russia has reneged on its commitment to abide by international law. Russia has clearly violated the principles of the Helsinki Final Act, and its actions are antithetical to the principles that NATO member countries like the United States seek to uphold. Nonetheless, significant bilateral trade in military equipment continues. The United Kingdom announced the Military Technical Cooperation Agreement with Russia in January 2014, which would provide a framework for Russian and UK defense companies to cooperate at an unclassified level and enable British and Russian arms producers to exchange defense components and technical data. France has continued an existing contract to sell two high-tech Mistral warships to Russia, and the Hungarian Ministry of Defense recently acquired three Mil Mi-8 transport helicopters produced by Rosoboronexport. Unfortunately and inexplicably, the United States is, at the time of writing, continuing with plans to receive 22 more Mi-17 helicopters from Russia as part of our ongoing assistance to Afghanistan. We believe the United States must show leadership by terminating all defense contracts with Russia and ask that you strongly encourage our NATO allies and OSCE participating states to take similar actions. We urge you to lead the coordination among NATO and OSCE to halt trade involving military equipment with Russia immediately. We believe this is a crucial step in reestablishing a deterrent against further Russian aggression and strengthening the impact of our targeted economic sanctions against Russia. We thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, BENJAMIN L. CARDIN United States Senate RICHARD BLUMENTHAL United States Senate JOHN CORNYN United States Senate ROGER F. WICKER United States Senate DANIEL COATS United States Senate CHRISTOPHER S. MURPHY United States Senate DAVID VITTER United States Senate KELLY AYOTTE United States Senate LOUISE M. SLAUGHTER Member of Congress JOE PITTS Member of Congress MICHAEL C. BURGESS Member of Congress
Human Rights in HungaryWednesday, December 11, 2013
Madam President, earlier this year I chaired a Helsinki Commission hearing on the situation in Hungary. Today, I would like to revisit some of the issues addressed by our witnesses. Since the April 2010 elections, Hungary has undertaken the most dramatic legal transformation that Europe has seen in decades. A new Constitution was passed with votes of the ruling party alone, and even that has already been amended five times. More than 700 new laws have been passed, including laws on the media, religion, and civic associations. There is a new civil code and a new criminal code. There is an entirely new electoral framework. The magnitude and scope of these changes have understandably put Hungary under a microscope. At the Helsinki Commission's hearing in March, I examined concerns that these changes have undermined Hungary's system of democratic checks and balances, independence of the judiciary, and freedoms of the media and religion. I also received testimony about rising revisionism and extremism. I heard from Jozsef Szajer, a Member of the European Parliament who represented the Hungarian Government at the hearing. Princeton constitutional law expert Kim Lane Scheppelle, Dr. Paul Shapiro from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, and Sylvana Habdank-Kolaczkowska from Freedom House presented compelling testimony. Unfortunately, developments in Hungary remain troubling. Even though Hungary's religion law was tweaked after the Constitutional Court struck down parts of it, it retains a discriminatory two-tier system. Moreover, the Parliament is empowered with the extraordinary and, for all practical purposes, unreviewable power to decide what is and what is not a religion. This month, the government announced it is launching an investigation into the Methodist Evangelical Church, a church persecuted during communist times. Today, the Methodist Evangelical Church is known for its outreach to Roma, work with the homeless and is one of the largest charitable organizations in Hungary. As I noted at the Helsinki Commission hearing in March, it is also one of the hundreds of religious groups stripped of official recognition after the passage of Hungary's new religion law. The church has now complied with submitting the necessary number of supporters required by the law and, as a reply, the government has announced an unidentified "expert'' will conduct an investigation into the church's beliefs and tenets. This step only reinforces fears that parliamentary denial of recognition as a so-called "Accepted Church'' opens the door for further repressive measures. Veneration of Hungary's wartime regent, Miklos Horthy, along with other anti-Semitic figures such as writer Jozsef Nyiro, continues. In November, a statue of Hungarian Jewish poet Miklos Radnoti, who was killed by Hungarian Nazis at the end of 1944, was rammed with a car and broken in half. At roughly the same time, extremists staged a book burning of his works along with other materials they called "Zionist publications.'' At the beginning of December, two menorahs were vandalized in Budapest. Reflecting the climate of extremism, more than 160 Hungarian nationals have been found by Canada this year to have a well-founded fear of persecution. Almost all are Romani, but the refugees include an 80-year-old award winning Hungarian Jewish writer who received death threats after writing about anti-Semitism in Hungary, and was stripped of his honorary citizenship of Budapest on an initiative from the far-right Jobbik party, supported by the votes of the ruling Fidesz party. While there are many who suggest the real problem comes from the extremist opposition party Jobbik, and not the ruling government, it seems that some members of Fidesz have contributed to a rise in intolerance. I am particularly troubled that the government-created Media Council, consisting entirely of Fidesz delegated members, has threatened ATV--an independent television station--with punitive fines if it again characterizes Jobbik as extremist. If you can't even talk about what is extremist or anti-Semitic in Hungary without facing legal sanctions, how can you combat extremism and anti-Semitism? Moreover, this decision serves to protect Jobbik from critical debate in the advance of next year's elections. Why? Other new measures further stifle free speech. Unfortunately, and somewhat shockingly, last month Hungary amended its defamation law to allow for the imposition of prison terms up to 3 years. The imposition of jail time for speech offenses was a hallmark of the communist era. During the post-communist transition, the Helsinki Commission consistently urged OSCE countries to repeal criminal defamation and insult laws entirely. In 2004, for example, the Helsinki Commission wrote to Minister of Justice Peter Barandy regarding the criminal convictions of Andras Bencsik and Laszlo Attila Bertok. This new law, raced through under an expedited procedure in the wake of a bi-election controversy in which allegations of voter manipulation were traded, was quickly criticized by the OSCE representative on Freedom of the Media. I share her concerns that these changes to the criminal code may lead to the silencing of critical or differing views in society and are inconsistent with OSCE commitments. Hungary was once held up as a model of peaceful democratic transition and is situated in a region of Europe where the beacon of freedom is still sought by many today. I hope Hungary will return to a leadership role in the protection of human rights and the promotion of democracy.
THE TRAJECTORY OF DEMOCRACY – WHY HUNGARY MATTERSTuesday, March 19, 2013
This hearing focused on recent constitutional changes to the Hungarian Constitution which has brought concerns from the United States and the European Union. Recently, Hungary has instituted sweeping and controversial changes to its constitutional framework, effectively remaking the country's entire legal foundation. In addition to constitutional changes, there have been some bills passed without the proper democratic spirit and has brought concerns about the trajectory of democracy in that country. The witnesses raised the changes that have created the majority government into a nearly one-party rule structure and compared such actions to President Madison's written exposé in the Federalist Papers number 47.
HungaryThursday, December 20, 2012
Mr. President, as the Senate chair of the Helsinki Commission, I have a longstanding interest in Central Europe. For many years the Helsinki Commission was one of the loudest and clearest voices to speak on behalf of those oppressed by communism and to call for democracy, human rights, and freedom from Soviet oppression. It has been a great triumph and joy to see the peoples of this region free from dictatorship. Over the past two decades I have been profoundly heartened as newly freed countries of Central Europe have joined the United States and NATO and have become our partners in advocating for human rights and democracy around the globe. Leadership on those issues may be especially important now as some countries in the Middle East undertake transition, the outcome of which is far from certain. Even in Europe, in the western Balkans, there is a crying need for exemplary leadership, not backsliding. Americans know from our own history that maintaining democracy and promoting human rights are never jobs that are finished. As my friend and former colleague Tom Lantos said, "The veneer of civilization is paper thin. We are its guardians, and we can never rest.'' For some time I have been concerned about the trajectory of developments in Hungary, where the scope and nature of systemic changes introduced after April 2010 have been the focus of considerable international attention. At the end of November, Hungary was back in the headlines when Marton Gyongyosi, a member of the notorious extremist party Jobbik and also vice chairman of the Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee, suggested that Hungarian Jews are a threat to Hungary's national security and those in government and Parliament should be registered. The ink was barely dry on letters protesting those comments when another Hungarian Member of Parliament, Balazs Lenhardt, participated in a public demonstration last week where he burned an Israeli flag. The fact is that these are only the latest extremist scandals to erupt in Budapest over the course of this year. In April, for example, just before Passover, a Jobbik MP gave a speech in Parliament weaving together subtle anti-Roma propaganda with overt anti-Semitism blood libel. After that, Jobbik was in the news when it was reported that one of its members in Parliament had requested and received certification from a DNA testing company that his or her blood was free of Jewish or Romani ancestry. At issue in the face of these anti-Semitic and racist phenomena is the sufficiency of the Hungarian Government's response and its role in ensuring respect for human rights and the rule of law. And the government's response has been, to say the least, wanting. First, it has been a hallmark of this government to focus on blood identity through the extension of Hungarian citizenship on a purely ethnic basis. The same Hungarian officials have played fast and loose with questions relating to its wartime responsibilities, prompting the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum to issue a public statement of concern regarding the rehabilitation of fascist ideologues and political leaders from World War II. I am perhaps most alarmed by the government's failure to stand against the organized threats from Jobbik. For example, in late August a mob estimated at 1,000 people terrorized a Roma neighborhood in Devecser, taunting the Romani families to come out and face the crowd. There were reportedly three members of Parliament from the Jobbik party participating in that mob, and some people were filmed throwing bricks or stones at the Romani homes. The failure to investigate, let alone condemn such acts of intimidation, makes Prime Minister Orban's recent pledge to protect "his compatriots'' ring hollow. Of course, all this takes place in the context of fundamental questions about democracy itself in Hungary. What are we to make of democracy in Hungary when more than 360 religious organizations are stripped of their registration overnight and when all faiths must now depend on the politicized decision-making of the Parliament to receive the rights that come with registration? What are we to make of the fact that even after the European Commission and Hungary's own Constitutional Court have ruled against the mass dismissal of judges in Hungary's court-packing scheme, there is still no remedy for any of the dismissed judges? What is the status of media freedom in Hungary, let alone the fight against anti-Semitism, if a journalist who writes about anti-Semitism faces possible sanction before the courts for doing so? What are we to make of Hungary's new election framework, which includes many troubling provisions, including a prohibition on campaign ads on commercial radio and TV, onerous new voter registration provisions, and limits on local election committees, which oversee elections? I find it hard to imagine that Jews, Roma, and other minorities will be safe if freedom of the media and religion, the rule of law, the independence of the Judiciary, and the checks and balances essential for democracy are not also safeguarded. With that in mind, I will continue to follow the overall trends in Hungary and the implications for the region as a whole.
Helsinki Commission Welcomes Unveiling of Berlin Memorial for Romani Genocide VictimsWednesday, November 21, 2012
On October 24, more than 600 people in Berlin attended the unveiling of the Memorial for the Sinti¹ and Roma of Europe Murdered under National Socialism. Leaders of the Helsinki Commission, who had underscored the importance of the monument, welcomed the event. Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04), Chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, observed that the memorial "marks an important step in acknowledging and teaching about the fate of Roma at the hands of the Nazi regime and the Axis powers: persecution, confiscation of property, forced sterilization, slave labor, inhumane medical experimentation, and ultimately genocide." Proposals to erect a memorial to the Romani victims of genocide emerged in the early 1990s after the unification of the Federal Republic of Germany and German Democratic Republic and at a time when German acknowledgement and remembrance took on additional dimensions. Those efforts, however, bogged down over questions regarding the location of the proposed memorial and the content of inscriptions. (Concerns raised by the artist over materials and weather-related construction complications also contributed to interruptions.) German government officials also suggested some delays were caused by differing views among Romani groups, particularly regarding the inscriptions; some critics of the delays suggested there was an insufficient sense of ownership and political will on the part of the government. Senator Ben Cardin (MD), Co-Chairman of the Commission, noted the singular role of Romani Rose, Chairman of the Central Council of German Sinti and Roma, and "his tireless work to ensure that Romani victims of genocide are remembered and honored." Rose, who lost his grandparents at Auschwitz and Ravensbrueck, was a driving force to see the memorial completed. Cardin added, "I am deeply heartened that efforts to build this memorial, underway for over a decade, have finally been realized." German government officials at the most senior level attended the unveiling of the genocide memorial, including Chancellor Angela Merkel, President Joachim Gauck, Bundestag President Norbert Lammert, Bundesrat President Horst Seehofer, and Berlin Mayor Klaus Wowereit. Former President Richard von Weizsacker, in spite of advanced years and frail health, was also present. Federal Minister of Culture Bernd Neumann described the memorial "a pillar of German remembrance." U.S. Ambassador to Germany Patrick Murphy and Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues Douglas Davidson represented the United States. Dr. Ethel Brooks, who has served as a public member with the U.S. Delegation to the 2011 and 2012 OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meetings, also attended the ceremony. The memorial, designed by Israeli artist Dani Karavan, was widely hailed as a deeply moving testimony to the genocide of Romani people. Dutch Sinto survivor Zoni Weiss addressed the hundreds of people who attended the event. As a 7-year-old, Weiss narrowly avoided being placed on the Westerbork transport from the Netherlands due to the intervention of platform policeman, but watched as his immediate family was sent to Auschwitz where they perished. The unveiling ceremony was also accompanied by a week of events in Berlin focused on Romani history, culture and contemporary issues. Gert Weisskirchen, former German Member of the Budestag and former OSCE Personal Representative on Anti-Semitism, organized a round-table focused on contemporary challenges faced by Roma. In her remarks at the event, Chancellor Merkel also acknowledged the on-going struggle for human rights faced by Roma throughout Europe, saying bluntly, "let's not beat around the bush. Sinti and Roma suffer today from discrimination and exclusion." Romani Rose warned more pointedly, "In Germany and in Europe, there is a new and increasingly violent racism against Sinti and Roma. This racism is supported not just by far-right parties and groups; it finds more and more backing in the middle of society." Background The Nazis targeted Roma for extermination. Persecution began in the 1920s, and included race-based denial of the right to vote, selection for forced sterilization, loss of citizenship on the basis of race, and incarceration in work or concentration camps. The most notorious sites where Roma were murdered include Auschwitz in Nazi-occupied Poland, the Jasenovac camp in the so-called Independent State of Croatia, Romanian-occupied Transnistria, and Babi-Yar in Nazi-occupied Ukraine. In other parts of German occupied or German-allied territory, Roma were frequently killed by special SS squads or even regular army units or police, often left in mass graves. Many scholars estimate that 500,000 Roma were killed during is World War II, although scholarship on the genocide of Roma remains in its infancy and many important archives have only become available to a broader community of researchers since the fall of communism. In recent years, for example, Father Patrick Desbois has helped document the location of 800 WWII-mass graves in Ukraine and elsewhere in the former Soviet Union, including 48 mass graves of Roma. German postwar restitution legislation and its implementation effectively excluded almost all Romani survivors. Those most directly responsible for actions against Roma escaped investigation, prosecution and conviction. Several officials responsible for the deportations of Roma before and during the war continued to have responsibility for Romani affairs after the war. In 1979, the West German Federal Parliament acknowledged the Nazi persecution of Roma as being racially motivated. In 1982, Chancellor Helmut Schmidt recognized that the National Socialist persecution of Romani people constituted genocide. The first German trial decision to take legal cognizance that Roma were genocide victims during the Third Reich was handed down in 1991. In 1997, Federal President Roman Herzog opened a Documentation and Cultural Center of German Sinti and Roma, saying "The genocide of the Sinti and Roma was carried out from the same motive of racial hatred, with the same intent and the same desire for planned and final annihilation as that of the Jews. They were systematically murdered in whole families, from the small child to the old man, throughout the sphere of influence of the Nazis." At the 2007 OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting, Thommas Hammarberg, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, observed that, "[e]ven after the [ . . . ] Nazi killing of at least half a million Roma, probably 700,000 or more, there was no genuine change of attitude among the majority population towards the Roma."
The Helsinki Commission has a long history of engagement in Central Europe, recognizing the importance of the individual countries of the region even at a time when many policy makers focused only on Moscow as the center of the Warsaw Pact alliance. Hungary hosted negotiations leading up to the 1994 OSCE Summit of Heads of State and Government. Commissioners have continued to follow issues related to the rule of law, democracy, and protection of the rights of the Romani minority.
Staff Contact: Erika Schlager, counsel for international law


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Tagged: Nick Johnson
Spring Training
Well as all you guys know by now Spring Training has started and it has been
a little while since I have written a blog. Yes, I have been pretty
busy and I am tired when I get home but that's no excuse (haha). Anyway, Spring
Training has gone great so far. I have had a blast seeing all the guys and
meeting all the new guys this year, we really have a great bunch of guys this
year and I'm super excited to get these games rolling so we can get this season
under way. The first couple days of camp we did the normal stuff: you know
physicals and all the running tests and all that stuff, to see if we
were all ready coming into spring. After the Spring Training speech from Manny
we finally got to the playing part of the game, which all of us do best. Some of
the guys that I have been talking to and hanging out with on and off the field
are Luke Montz, Jordan Zimmermann, John Lannan, Ryan Zimmerman, Nick Johnson,
Mike O'Conner, Joel Hanrahan, Tyler Clippard, Ian Desmond, Clint Everts, Brian
Peacock, Devin Ivany, Fast Eddie, and Bailey (Lannan's dog). I mean there's more
but hey, I can't list everyone on the roster. This Spring really has a different
feel to it. There is a lot more energy and just different attitudes going around,
everyone here belives that we are a good team and that last year is over and
that we are going to win this year. It's an awesome feeling to be a part of this camp.
Some of the other things going on around here is just a lot of media stuff. Next week we start games so that's another thing
to look forward too. Besides that, everything else right now is going real smooth,
my arm feels great and it's really great to see that this whole team is healthy
and ready to start this 2009 year off with a bang. Also it's great to see all
the fans out here. I mean there has been a lot of people coming everyday, even
in this freezing cold weather ( 45 degrees haha).
Also if you haven't filled out your Oscar poll: you have 'til tomorrow to do
it. I will be keeping up with this every 2 to 3 days, no more going 2 weeks without
blogging. Also, check out this thing I did with Ron Jon Surf Shop the other day, it was pretty fun to do.
Bally Minute # 2
�� Well lets see its been a couple days since my last Bally's minute, so other than just lifting weights, throwing, and crushing people in Ncaa Football online not much new. �But one thing thats new is a song that has really been pumping me up while im lifting and I have been listening to about 35 times daily. �Its called Just Dance by Lady GaGa and Colby O'Donis, I need everyone that looks at this blog to go download it well actually go to ITunes and buy it so you dont get in trouble (haha) its a great song and im thinking about using it as my come out song when I hit.
Thanksgiving Break in California & Debut of 'Bally's Minute'
hough he's a NorCal guy. (Most of you guys won't know what that means, but, anywho). I mean let me tell you a little story about Nick and I, and you be the judge. So he was hurt and there was like a month or so left in the season and he was cleaning out his locker, and I come over and he's like "take whatever you want," and I say "what?" and he's like "take anything you want in my locker it's the least I can do, you're my boy." So he ends up giving me all these bobble heads and wrist bands and stuff but the best thing he gave me was a pink mothers day bat. I'm talking about a one-of-a-kind thing. He said it was between me and his mom who got it and he gave it to me haha. So there you go right there. So this week my "Minute Man" was Nick Johnson and next blog it could be you. You guys have to give me reasons that you should be on Bally's Minute. Honorable mention this week goes to: Ryan Zimmerman, Jeremey Plexico, Clint Everts,Colin Cowherd, (PS3: me online beating people in NCAA Football.)

subset: commoncrawl


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'Jane By Design' Summer Finale: Jane's Secret Is Finally Exposed
The first season of 'Jane By Design' came to a close with surprise twists, new beginnings & one major cliffhanger! (This show NEEDS a second season.)
When Jane By Design creator April Blair told me everything would be "put in jeopardy" for Jane (Erica Dasher) on the July 31 summer finale, I didn't realize what an understatement that really was. While Jane began the hour with a major victory in London, she ended it with a disappointing realization about Billy (Nick Roux) — and a very uncertain future at Donovan Decker!
I think the best way to break down the drama is to take things couple by couple, beginning with…
BEN & RITA: As promised, Ben (David Clayton Rogers) made his triumphant return home this week, but he didn't just do it for Jane! He also professed his love for Rita (Smith Cho), who returned his affections by interrupting his baseball practice with some intense PDA. I really hope Whitemarsh High doesn't have rules against co-workers dating, because these two are headed in an adorable direction and I don't want them to stop. Ever.
INDIA & JEREMY: Though Jeremy (Rowly Dennis) agreed to deliver his drawings to Harrod's, he drew the line at returning to Donovan Decker in New York. So India (India de Beaufort) did the only thing she could: She flew to England to win back her bloody bloke! We were left with a cute scene between the "couple" in Jeremy's family's pub, and even though India begged him to return to Donovan Decker with her, he really seems resistent to the idea.
JANE & ELI: In a surprising turn of events, especially for this show, Eli (Bryan Dechart) came clean to Jane about sleeping with someone else. Granted, he didn't say who he slept with, but even a half-confession is a sign of serious progress. And while Jane was understandably upset, she also recognized that she and Eli weren't exclusive, and she certainly gave him enough reasons to seek attention from another girl. Besides, she had Billy to think about! Which leads me to…
JANE & BILLY: I'm not going to lie, I think the promos for this episode totally over-hyped Billy's "decision" between Jane and Zoe (Mariah Buzolin). At no point did Billy actually have to choose between the two — he's clearly head-over-heels in love with Zoe right now — but it did break my heart to see Jane as she watched Billy play Prince Charming to Zoe's Cinderella. She finally realized how much she loves him, a realization that arrived about eight episodes too late, unfortunately.
JANE & HER CAREER: As if watching Billy and Zoe together wasn't hard enough, Jane was served a double dose of "FML" when Gray (Andie MacDowell) and Eli came backstage to meet the genius behind the play's costumes. The episode ended with Jane and Gray standing face-to-face, and I can't imagine how Jane can possibly explain her way out of this disaster. (Oh, who am I kidding? This is Jane we're talking about! She's gotten really good at lying.)
How do you feel about the way the finale ended? Do you wish Jane had told Billy how she really feels? Are you bummed Jeremy refused to come back to New York? And how do you think Jane can possibly weasel her way out of this mess? Drop me a comment with your personal review of the summer finale!
— Andy Swift
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edd's thailändisches restaurant? please. mao thai? no way, josé.
nope — for the freshest, most delicious, and authentic thai food, head on over to winterfeldtmarkt on saturdays, and find the little stand owned by the talented and lovely ms. rattaporn moeckel. choose any of their daily specialties. you'll love it, regardless of what you end up ordering — be it soups, curries, or chicken saté. their wonton soup is made with delicate, pillowy wontons stuffed with ground pork and spices, bobbing around in a flavorful broth.
my personal favorite by far, however, is their fiery dim sum. people with "farang" palates can get a whimpier version, but really – what's the point? these are incredibly delicious dumplings bursting with thai flavors: spicy, salty, sour, and a touch of sweetness.
a recent special was this incredible steamed fish topped with a custardy coconut curry.
ms. moeckel can be hired for catering, and if i were to throw a party in berlin, she'd be my first choice.
go eat there NOW. do make sure to get there before 1 pm, otherwise most of the tasty treats will have been ravished by other, earlier birds. damn, i hate those early birds.
Tags: berlin, dim sum, dumplings, larb, overall awesomeness, schöneberg, thai food, winterfeldtmarkt


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Usain Bolt
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Usain Bolt (born 21 August 1986) is a Jamaican sprinter who holds the Olympic and world records for the 100 metres at 9.58 seconds, the 200 metres at 19.19 seconds and, along with his teammates, the 4x100 metres relay at 37.04 seconds, all set at the 2008 Summer Olympics.
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About Usain Bolt[edit]
- I thought Bolt was amazing, I mean, beating the world record and slowing down at the end, how galling has that got the for the other athletes? I never managed to do anything in 9.69 seconds, it took me ten seconds to watch him do that.
- Frankie Boyle, Mock The Week (2012)


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March 4, 2012
Susan Southworth's 2007 novel uncovers, as the title promises, the horrors that always transpire whenever one people, usually in the name of liberty, redefines another people as objects, a reclassification that characterizes ethnic cleansing as patriotism. But this beautifully written novel does so much more. Peeling back the labels resulting from centuries of warfare and hate, Southworth shows us the fears, yes, but also the dignity and nobility of Others, a revelation that should inspire us all even as we weep for their pain.
By end of the novel, we follow Donald, a retired American linguist, into southwest Kosovaran town Prizren, where the Kosova Liberation Army celebrates its 1999 triumph over the Serbs, a victory made possible by NATO bombing. Absent from Prizren for a month, Donald expects to find what he left five weeks before: his Turkish friend and fellow linguist Bayram, with whom Donald can share his experiences living with Serbian peasants and resume their discussion of the Albanian language and culture.
Instead, he finds Bayram's house trashed and valuable manuscripts scattered all over the grounds, acts of the new owner, an army thug. Bayram himself Donald finds in a make-shift jail, cuffed and beaten, lying on a floor littered with feces and surrounded by walls splattered with other victims' blood (100-108). Though beaten himself, Donald escapes the Kosovaran violence via Macedonia, but not before witnessing Serbs shot in the street (120). In the final chapter, the narrator shows us the fate of the Serbian peasants that had welcomed Donald: Petar has been beheaded, and his wife Leposava wonders off in a daze, looking for the "home"—their cabin and their country—now a "bloody mosaic," the work of soldiers, not much more than boys, intoxicated by liberty and by a culture of retribution and guns (122).
Before this bloody ending, however, primarily through Donald's eyes, we learn to see Albanians, Turks, and Serbs not as oppressors or victims but as human beings worthy of our understanding and respect. Through Donald, for instance, we learn to revere the ancient Albanian language and culture (33), and that respect helps us understand how Donald can look at an angry Albanian soldier and see a scared boy, a "sweet-faced teenager" (104) with baggy fatigues on his "skinny frame" (100). Through Donald we also learn to relish coffee, dates, water pipes, baths—all things Turkish, especially his courteous friend Bayram (32-40).
Through Donald we learn as well to respect Serbs who "won't leave." Bogdan the Serbian policeman, for example, earns that respect by risking his life daily helping peasants to steer clear of the Liberation Army (5-15, 88-96), as does the young Serbian mountain man by hiding Donald, suspected of being an enemy courier (56-59). Through Donald's month-long sojourn with the Serbian farmer and his wife, we also come to admire Petar and Leposava, their spiritual intimacy with the land, their domestic harmony and peace, their generosity. Revering their American guest, they feed him hearty bean soup, fresh eggs, and oatmeal cakes; they teach him to hoe the garden and to trap rabbits for supper; they show him how to bathe in the rain-water, how to dance with abandon, how to smell the seasons and fish in the stream (64-86). They also share with Donald their Serbian epic poems, accompanied by Petar's gusle, a one-string instrument that can come to life "like a snake" (83) under Petar's bow and moan "like a sad wind" (77). All Serbs, Petar sighs, "have too much history," and he relates to Donald their own stories of grief over a grandfather lost in the war with Bulgaria, over an infant son who should not have died (80-83).
Possessed of these histories, we can no longer vilify oppressors and count victims; we can only acknowledge human beings and cry for the Balkans.


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Looking for an RV topic? Search the entire forum HERE
Just an update to everyone. I am attaching a new attendee list. Pretty much the samewith the exception of Paul DeMariais. Additionally due to a catastrophic failure of my Hydra-Lift motorcycle carrier I will NOT bebringing my Harley to Big Bend which I really regret. There are some great roads around there to ride on. I guess we may have to take the top off the new Jeep and go for a ride topless. Don't let my misfortune stop you from bringing yours. Great roads in the Big Bend.Looking forward to seeing everyone in Texas once again.... Wow I hope your lift didnt brake off for the frame. I installed a cable lift for a friends class A its welded to the frame and has latch with some pins that lock in place if there is a cable failure. Hopefully there wasn't a jeep being towed.THE Big Larry
Larry, due to some ongoing health issues, Lorna and I have had to cancel our reservation for Big Bend. Sorry we'll miss everyone.
Jesse and Vicki Vaught will be there. Thanks
Hi all, This is Dan & Brenda Shuler from Michigan. We are new FMCA members. We want to attend the Big Bend National Park, Texas Rally April 17-24.Please advise who we contact to make reservations.Thank You,Dan & Brenda
24 Coaches so far. We have 30 spaces 'reserved' so if you have any friendsyou think might enjoy our party, Bring Em ! ! ! !
I met a guy on "another" forum that I have mentioned it to. Hope he joins in on the rally.Mike.
Hi y'all, I may be the guy that Mike's referring to. I joined this forum and made reservations at Maverick Ranch although I haven't received confirmation yet. It's not unusual to have to follow up and I will check back with them in a couple of days. A friend we travel with is trying to squeeze the Rally dates into his schedule as well. What type of terrain and difficulty can we expect on the planned wheeling rides? Both of my Jeeps have 3" lifts and 32's but aren't equipped for hard core crawling. Looking forward to meeting the group and enjoying the Lajitas area... it's one of our favorite relatively close to home destinations!~David & Kay~
Larry, please add Linda and Richard Sharp to the attendance list. They already have their reservations.
See you in under 90 days. . . . . .
THE Big Larry, I received your PM but cannot reply. An error message pops up saying I can't send PM's? I searched the help topics but can't find a solution. At any rate, thanks for the welcome and rally info! If you have any ideas on the PM situation I'd appreciate the help. Thanks,~David
As I remember PMs are restricted for new members until they make 5 posts. So after your next post you should be able to send PMs. All part of the software attempt to limit hackers.Glad you're joining us.ken
WOW! It is creeping up fast and I still have a ton of work to do before I'm ready for the 2016 RVing season.I had better kick it in the butt, huh. Mike.
It's Wendy's Rule. "Wear your damn name badge" . . . .
WOW! It is creeping up fast and I still have a ton of work to do before I'm ready for the 2016 RVing season.I had better kick it in the butt, huh. Mike.
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By CEM Member Dr. Ilan Kelman
Disasters kill people and destroy infrastructure. They are a problem for society as a whole. So where does nature come into the equation?
Natural ecosystems help reduce the damage from disasters while supporting livelihoods needed for post-disaster recovery. If we want to prevent the impact disasters have on people, we have to manage and restore our ecosystems properly.
Nature supplies us with food, water, and building materials. When we extract these essential resources we have an impact on nature. Too often, this impact destroys ecosystems.
The use of dynamite or cyanide for fishing, for example, kills nearby coral reefs, which means that when a cyclone hits, the storm surge damage will be far greater. The dead coral reefs no longer reduce the wave energy striking the shore, leaving coastal settlements exposed to the full force of the storm.
Similarly, when wetlands are drained for urban development and paved over with roads, properties and car parks, flooding becomes a major issue. Rainwater, instead of being soaked up gradually by the wetland and released slowly downstream, runs directly off paved surfaces and into the nearest waterways. Unsurprisingly, they cannot cope with the sudden influx of water and they flood, threatening both lives and livelihoods.
Harming or neglecting nature can return to haunt us through disasters. The answer isn't banning anyone from ever touching any part of the natural world. The real answer lies in recognizing the links between investing in nature and disaster risk reduction.
In January 2001, an earthquake in El Salvador killed more than 800 people. Three quarters of the fatalities occurred in one community when a landslide buried their houses. The slope above the community had been partially deforested for building houses. Without the tree roots to bind the soil together, it was highly susceptible to landslides.
In contrast, communities in the Alps save lives and help prevent extensive damage by managing forests to reduce avalanche and landslide risks.
In Vietnam, the cost of replanting coastal mangroves was earned back sevenfold after one year of reduced dyke maintenance costs. That is not counting the lives saved and damage prevented from typhoons. Furthermore, maintaining these mangrove forests has prevented the coasts from being used for large-scale shrimp farms, with all the consequent problems, while supporting small-scale livelihoods reliant on shrimps, crabs and molluscs, which thrive in healthy mangrove ecosystems.
Here, ecosystem management has not only contributed to reducing the risk of typhoon disasters, but has also saved money and supported local livelihoods.
Taking nature's ecosystems into consideration, along with our interaction with ecosystems, will help us have healthier and safer lives and livelihoods. Unless we commit to investing in ecosystem restoration and better management, we will continue to create disasters, hurting ourselves and those we love.
Dr. Ilan Kelman
Senior Research Fellow
Center for International Climate and Environmental Research – Oslo, Norway
CEM Member


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CREW TV brings you closer to the industry's
most influential leaders and thinkers. Click on the videos below to watch the interviews:
Top Investor Awards finalist Jeff White speaks to the industry and both the challenges and rewards ahead.
Video transcript below:
Jeff White, Nominee: Top Newcomer of the Year
Well it was running through the night, I thought I had won some rock star status. I thought when I might get here there will be red carpets out front, too bad. Unfortunately no. No, actually I was honoured and humbled at the same time. It's a huge honour to have my name going across the desk of the judges, Don Campbell, Peter Kinch. But humbling as well because I know there is so much other huge stuff going on in that room. Dominex spoke and you have seen these guys and girls are just doing so many amazing things and it's inspirational because it shows me what I have to learn and what I can do, what's achievable.
O I would love to leverage it as credibility to catch some joint venture partners. And it's just an exciting thing to be able to help people. It's a conversation starter, what are you doing this weekend. Oh I am going over, I have been nominated to this award. And so one of the lessons that Julia Broad just gave was that you know you are not selling, you are just telling. You are talking to people about what you are doing and so it will be a fantastic opportunity to tell people what I did on the weekend.
Perkins Coie is pleased to announce that Devin P. McComb has joined the firm's Seattle office as a partner in the Real Estate & Land Use practice
Grimsby skyline to be reshaped by tallest buildings in city: two-tower residential complex
Connect Asset Management Challenges the Financial Community to Invest in Downtown Toronto Real Estate for a Good Cause


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Need more information about Kamloops?City of Kamloops - Home
Looking for ways to fund your education? Check out TRU's financial aid and awards page.
Application Fee: $29.83
1. Completion of TRU's Adventure Guide Certificate
Admission Advice
1. The Adventure Studies Department faculty may elect to interview some applicants to determine their readiness for admission. This interview may be conducted at TRU, by phone or video conferencing.
2. You must possess medical coverage and will be required to have additional coverage for any course held in foreign countries, including the US.
3. Entry is competitive and applications are screened to ensure an adequate level of outdoor recreation experience has been attained prior to entry to TRU. The department will review and consider student transcripts and GPA for the last year.
Applicants also have to satisfy TRU's institution admission requirements as listed below.
For students whose first language is not English and wish to enter academic programs without attending ESL courses, you must provide one of the following (minimum scores):
Verify with the institution directly
English Language Skills - You must have adequate English language skills to participate in your intended program of study.
You must meet the program-specific admission requirements of your intended program. To qualify for admission to the Bachelor of Business/Arts/Science degree program, you will need to have completed BC Grade 12 (or equivalent).
You must meet the program-specific admission requirements of your intended program. To qualify for admission to the Bachelor of Business/Arts/Science degree program, you will need to have completed BC Grade 12 (or equivalent).
If you do not meet the admission requirements for your intended program it's possible to gain entry through mature student status. To be classified as a mature student you must be at least 19 years old and have been out of school for at least two years. In such cases the grade level requirement (eg -Grade 10, Grade 12) will be waived however individual course prerequisites must still be met (eg-English 10, English 12).
Special Note: It's possible to make up course prerequisites for your intended program through TRU.
Training in a program like this one can lead to different careers. Related occupations are presented to show potential career options, not definite outcomes.
Follow the links to learn more about these careers on WorkBC's career profiles.


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Diamond SuperDuo Bracelet Beadwork Kit - Bronze Mix
Diamond SuperDuo Bracelet Beadwork Jewellery KitColour - Bronze Mix
Learn to make this fabulous beadwork bracelet with SuperDuo beads and Miyuki seed beads. Make in around 2 hours
This kit comes packaged in a pretty organza gift bag too!
Skill level: Practiced Beginner
Jewellery Making Techniques: Beadwork with two hole beads, connection segments, making and attaching clasp and loop, half-hitch knots (securing the thread)
Jewellery Tools required: Beading needle Size 10/12 and scissors(not included)
Kit includes:
- SuperDuo Beads
- Size 11° MIYUKI Seed Beads
- Size 8° MIYUKI Seed Beads
- Fireline Thread
Also required but not included:
- Beading Needle Size 10/12 (not included)
- Bead mat & Scissors (not included)


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Going Beyond Borders for GrowthBy Faisal Hoque Print
Outsourcing allows an organization to take advantage of a globally distributed pool of resources, while focusing resources and attention on core initiatives and improved business strategy.
What do you think of when you hear the word "outsourcing?" Often, the image likely consists of software developers in India who require a fraction of what it would cost if the work were done in-house; customer service centers focused on ensuring that a consumer, albeit located a world away, is satisfied with whatever was ordered, purchased, returned, etc.; or, very likely—jobs that have moved elsewhere. In other words, the opinions are not always favorable.
Although not exactly untrue, the above examples are not my impression. As a serial entrepreneur, time and experience have taught me that in some cases, you need to let someone else do the work. Sometimes, you need to extend beyond the core competencies of your team—and in turn, extend your enterprise.
By definition, an extended enterprise explores the evolving global knowledge economy, enabling an organization to ultimately adapt to it. By assembling a set of strategic partners in a way that leverages distinctive capabilities, an organization is positioned to take advantage of a globally distributed pool of resources. In turn, a business benefits from a greater ability to focus resources and attention on core initiatives and an overall improved business strategy.
I recently came across an area, which although in existence for decades, really struck a chord in my mind on how far outsourcing can broaden the reach and growth potential of an organization. Association management companies are for-profit businesses that handle all aspects of operations for associations, nonprofits, institutes and the like.
This outsourcing option presents alternatives for organizations—often founded on the basis of philanthropy, education, social business, career advancement or health-care support—providing efficient management and seamless administration, which lets the groups focus elsewhere, such as on their charter, priorities and members.
In today's highly dynamic, global markets, every organization must consider extending itself beyond its walls to maintain a competitive edge. No company is immune to the influences of globalization, with the opportunities and complexities it presents. Organizations must develop the ability to continually adjust, since markets, competition, supply chains and customers are constantly being rearranged by the global economy. In addition, penetrating new markets and gaining value from a set of strategic global partners--leveraging their distinctive competencies--are necessary if an organization is to successfully take advantage of a globally distributed pool of technology and knowledge resources and to remain competitive.
This newly developed way of thinking can be summed up by the term "knowledge economy." We believe that Global Outsourcing = Knowledge Economy. This economy is about discovering and harnessing the knowledge that can spring forth from any mind, anywhere. To successfully identify, leverage and manage this newly available knowledge, an organization must transform itself into an "extended enterprise" by establishing "value nets."
In value nets, strategic partners nurture their distinctive competencies to world-class levels and tightly coordinate partner activities. In this way, they can continually improve their value propositions or engage radically transformed or newly created product markets. But these relationships require new process and technology configurations, as well as new types of governance.
These relationships require new approaches, including deploying processes to manage the extended enterprise, making adjustments to organizational structures to streamline decision making in a highly matrixed environment, and using supporting automation within and beyond the walls of an organization.
Companies that "get it right" position themselves for remarkable success. Getting it right begins with the strategic and holistic perspectives achieved through an increased focus on the elements needed for globalization. These elements, in turn, will allow companies to make more-informed decisions on outsourcing and to manage the results more effectively.
Are you ready to venture out in search of success?
Faisal Hoque is chairman and CEO of BTM Corporation. BTM innovates business models and enhances financial performance by converging business and technology with its unique products and intellectual property. © 2008 Faisal Hoque
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Tags New Orleans renters
Tag: New Orleans renters
Katrina Pain Index 2009
This month marks four years since Katrina hit the Gulf Coast. The world saw who was left behind when Katrina hit. The same people have been left behind in the "rebuilding." In the rebuilding, those with money have done OK. Those without have not. It is the American way. Here is a statistical snapshot illustrating some of the legacy of Katrina and the U.S. response.


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Real(redirected from really)
Also found in: Dictionary, Thesaurus, Medical, Legal, Acronyms, Idioms, Encyclopedia, Wikipedia.
Used in the context of general equities. (1) natural, (2) not dividend roll-or program trading-related; (3) not tax-related. "Real" indications have three major repercussions: a) pricing will be more favorable to the other side of the trade since an investment bank is not committing any capital; b) price pressure will be stronger if real since a natural buyer/seller may have information leading to his decision or more behind it, and c) an uptick may be required for the trader to transact if the indication is not real and the trader has no long position.


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Advanced Topics in Statutory InterpretationThis course addresses the variety of approaches courts and others have applied in interpreting statutory language. We will discuss the conceptual foundations of and the controversies around the dominant approaches of textualism and intentionalism. We will also consider other approaches, including dynamic and economic approaches to interpretation, and we will treat the debates over canons of construction, legislative history, and dictionaries. We will explore both theoretically-focused legal scholarship and particular cases and statutory issues. Each student will be required to write two short reaction papers over the course of the semester (each five pages or less) and, by the end of the semester, one longer paper of roughly twenty pages. The short papers will be circulated to other seminar members in advance of the relevant week's discussion.Prerequisites: None, though previous completion of Legislation and Regulation, or another statutory or regulatory course such as Administrative Law, Tax Law, Employment Law, Telecommunications Regulation, or Environmental Law, is highly recommended.
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Door Openers and More is your source for Wireless Keypads for your Garage Door or Automatic Gate Opener. These keyless entry units can come in very handy when you don't want to take your keys or a remote control with you when you take the kids to the park, the dog for a walk, or even just want to work in the back yard. Just input your code to open or close the door, no need to carry a remote with your or give one to your kids for them to lose.
On this page you will find our huge selection of keyless entry keypads from the leading manufacturers like LiftMaster, Genie, Chamberlain, Multicode, Linear, Wayne Dalton and many more. If your not sure which is the correct unit for your opener just ASK US or give us a call.