text:
Technosource Information Systems, LLC; TrueTandem, LLC
B-405296,B-405296.2,B-405296.3: Oct 17, 2011
Additional Materials:
- Full Report:
(202) 512-8278
Kenneth E. Patton
(202) 512-8205
Office of Public Affairs
(202) 512-4800
Technosource Information Systems, LLC, of Annapolis, Maryland, and TrueTandem, LLC, of Reston, Virginia, protest the terms of request for quotations (RFQ) No. QTA011GNB0010, issued by the General Services Administration (GSA), Information Technology Service, for cloud computing services.
We sustain the protest in part and deny it in part.
B-405296; B-405296.2; B-405296.3, Technosource Information Systems, LLC; TrueTandem, LLC, October 17, 2011
Matter of: Technosource Information Systems, LLC; TrueTandem, LLC
File: B-405296; B-405296.2; B-405296.3
William A. Shook, Esq., Shook Doran LLP, for the protesters.
Timothy Sullivan, Esq., and Katherine S. Nucci, Esq., Thompson Coburn LLP, for Onix Networking Corporation; E. Charles Rowan, Esq., for Unisys Corporation, the intervenors.
John Cornell, Esq., General Services Administration, Information Technology Service, for the agency.
Eric M. Ransom, Esq., and Edward Goldstein, Esq., Office of the General Counsel, GAO, participated in the preparation of the decision.
1. Protest of agency requirement that any non-U.S.-based cloud computing data centers be located in Trade Agreements Act Designated Countries is sustained where the agency failed to establish a connection to any legitimate government need.
2. Protest of agency requirement for a "government community cloud" limited to United States federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, is denied where the record supports a potentially meaningful security benefit associated with the requirement.
3. Allegation that solicitation's internet routing requirements are ambiguous is sustained where the relevant terms are only apparent by reference to explanations and documents which were not incorporated in, or referenced by, the solicitation.
Technosource Information Systems, LLC, of Annapolis, Maryland, and TrueTandem, LLC, of Reston, Virginia, protest the terms of request for quotations (RFQ) No. QTA011GNB0010, issued by the General Services Administration (GSA), Information Technology Service, for cloud computing services.
We sustain the protest in part and deny it in part.
GSA issued the RFQ on May 9, 2011, to establish a SmartBUY blanket purchase agreement of GSA Schedule 70 contract holders for cloud computing services including, specifically, e-mail as a service (EaaS). The RFQ contemplates five service offerings divided into five lots: (1) EaaS; (2) Office Automation; (3) Electronic Record Management; (4) Migration Services; and (5) Integration Services. RFQ at 3. Each service lot was further divided into four sub-lots corresponding to various cloud computing deployment models: Government Community Cloud; Provider Furnished Equipment Private Cloud; Secret Enclave; and Public Cloud. Id. Pricing for each sub-lot was further divided into two contract line item numbers (CLIN). The first CLIN was for "U.S. Based Prices" and required all data and data centers to be located in the United States. The second CLIN was for "Non-U.S. Based Prices," which was applicable when any data or data centers would be located "in designated countries defined by Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 25.003."[1] Thus, by its terms, the RFQ did not allow for locating data or data centers in non-U.S. countries other than the designated countries defined by FAR sect. 25.003.[2]
The RFQ included both common technical requirements applicable to all lots and deployment models, as well as lot-specific and sub-lot-specific technical requirements. Among the common requirements, the RFQ set forth a number of data center facilities requirements. As relevant here, common requirement 17 mandated that:
17. The Quoter shall describe their solutions to provide effective separation of network traffic meeting the following objectives:
a. All inbound and outbound data, inclusive of all mail messages, including between the Government and other co'tenants, can be routed through a dedicated network connection.
b. The service must exclude co-tenant data, or any other third party data, not intended for the Government from being transmitted through a Government network connection.
c. The service must exclude data intended solely within the Government from being routed through an external (non'government) network connections [sic].
RFQ at 39.
Also relevant here are the sub-lot-specific requirements related to the government community cloud deployment model. Specifically, the requirement defining the scope of the government community cloud indicated that, "[t]he Quoter shall provide a cloud specifically limited to Government clients with an appropriate Government issued domain name for a Moderate Impact System." RFQ at 49. The term "Government clients" was not defined by the RFQ.
Finally, the RFQ incorporated "all GSA ordering activity and customer governed IT security standards, policies, reporting requirements, and government-wide laws or regulation applicable to the protection of government-wide information security." RFQ at 68. These policies and regulations include, for example, the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) of 2002; Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD-12), "Policy for a Common Identification Standard for Federal Employees and Quoters;" and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Memo M-08-16, "Guidance for Trusted Internet Connection Statement of Capability Form." The policies and regulations section of the RFQ noted that "Quoters are also required to comply with Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS), the 'Special Publications 800 Series' guidelines published by [the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)], and the requirements of FISMA." Id.
The RFQ was set to close at 11:00 p.m. on July 8, 2011. Technosource filed its protest of the terms of the RFQ on July 7. TrueTandem filed a copy of the Technosource protest as its own protest on July 8, prior to the closing time for the RFQ. The protesters assert that the limitation on the location of vendors' non-U.S. based data centers is unnecessarily restrictive of competition, that the government community cloud sub-lot specifications are unnecessarily restrictive of competition and exceed the government's legitimate needs, and that requirement 17 c. of the common technical requirements is ambiguous and contradictory to the provision of a public cloud solution.[3]
Data Center Location Requirement
The protesters argue that the solicitation's provision requiring vendors to locate their data services in "designated countries" as defined by FAR sect. 25.003 is unduly restrictive of competition because the requirement has no basis in law or regulation, and there is no otherwise legitimate need for such a restriction.[4]
As a general matter, a contracting agency has the discretion to determine its needs and the best method to accommodate them. Parcel 47C LLC, B-286324, B-286324.2, Dec. 26, 2000, 2001 CPD para. 44 at 7. In preparing a solicitation, a contracting agency is required to specify its needs in a manner designed to achieve full and open competition and may include restrictive requirements only to the extent they are necessary to satisfy the agency's legitimate needs. 10 U.S.C. sect. 2305(a)(1) (2006); Innovative Refrigeration Concepts, B-272370, Sept. 30, 1996, 96-2 CPD para. 127 at 3. To the extent a protester challenges a specification as "unduly restrictive," that is, challenges both the restrictive nature of the requirement as well as the agency's need for the restriction, the procuring agency has the responsibility of establishing that the specification is reasonably necessary to meet its needs. The adequacy of the agency's justification is ascertained through examining whether the agency's explanation is reasonable, that is, whether the explanation can withstand logical scrutiny. Trident World Sys., Inc., B-400901, Feb. 23, 2009, 2009 CPD para. 43 at 3. If the agency establishes support for the challenged solicitation term, the burden shifts to the protester to show that it is clearly unreasonable. Outdoor Venture Corp.; Applied Cos., B-299675, B-299676, July 19, 2007, 2007 CPD para. 138 at 5.
GSA has offered various justifications for the data center location requirements set forth in the RFQ. In its agency report, GSA acknowledged that the specification represented a compromise between the security needs of federal agencies (which desired all data to be stored and processed in the United States) and the United States Trade Representative's (USTR) office (which according to the agency, advised that a U.S. data center limitation impermissibly restricted free trade). Agency Report (AR), Legal Memo, at 7. Nonetheless, GSA has argued that the government has a need to know where its data resides and transits, because when U.S. government data crosses national borders, the governing legal, privacy, and regulatory regimes become ambiguous and raise a variety of concerns including the potential of foreign jurisdictions to assert access rights to U.S. Government data.
Later, in response to specific questions from our Office, GSA argued that the data center location requirements were not unduly restrictive or unreasonable because GSA was attempting to achieve a "balance between security and free trade," and that "[t]o state that data centers can be located anywhere in the world would be irresponsible, given the many factors that must be addressed when considering risk inherent in any IT system." GSA Response at 6.
Finally, our Office also held a hearing in this protest. During the hearing, we again requested that GSA explain the basis for its data center location requirements. In response, GSA repeated that the solicitation had originally limited data center locations to the continental United States, but that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the USTR considered the limitation restrictive of trade, and advised GSA to permit data centers located in foreign countries. Transcript at 13-14. During the hearing, the contracting officer testified that GSA expressed its view that allowing data centers located in foreign countries was unnecessary under applicable trade agreements, specifically the Trade Agreements Act (TAA), 19 U.S.C. sect. 2512, et seq., but that OMB and the USTR nonetheless wanted to expand the requirements to data centers located outside the U.S. Id. at 25-26.
The contracting officer further explained that after GSA determined to expand the requirements to include CLINs for cloud solutions utilizing data centers outside the United States, it found that it had no list of countries that it considered acceptable, or any basis to exclude one country versus another. Id. at 18-19. In the absence of making country-by-country determinations, the contracting officer explained that limiting data centers to "designated countries" under the TAA allowed for the exclusion of countries of particular concern such as Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and China, id. at 21, and would ensure at least some trade framework was in place between the U.S. and the government of any foreign country in which a data center was located, since "designated countries" are covered by trade agreements with the United States. Id. at 22-23. Ultimately, GSA acknowledged that the addition of CLINs for non-U.S. data centers reflected a compromise given the concerns raised by OMB and the USTR, Id. at 31, and acknowledged that it expects the non-U.S. CLINs to see very limited, if any, use. Id. at 23, 27.
As an initial matter, we concur with the agency's stated position to OMB and the USTR, that the requirements at issue are not mandated by the TAA. As a general matter, the TAA requires the acquisition of only U.S.'made or designated country end products or U.S. or "designated country" services, unless certain exceptions apply.[5] FAR sect. 25.403(c)(1).
According to FAR sect. 25.402(a)(2), when analyzing the origin of services--to determine whether the services are of a "designated country"--the determination is made based on "the country in which the firm providing the services is established." Since compliance with the TAA in this context turns on where a cloud provider's business is established--and not on where the data centers that process and store subscriber data are located--the location of a provider's data centers would not be determinative of TAA compliance.[6]
We do not, however, conclude that GSA's explanations for the non-U.S. data center location requirements are otherwise reasonable, or withstand logical scrutiny. First, with regard to GSA's argument that the government has a need to know where U.S. government data resides and transits, this objective is accomplished by the requirement for vendors to identify the locations of their data centers. Second, while we appreciate the security concerns and legal ambiguities associated with subjecting U.S. government data to the jurisdictions of foreign countries,[7] to the extent the solicitation allows for locating U.S. government data outside the United States, it is apparent that the limits drawn by GSA in this regard have been established in an arbitrary manner.
In this connection, the legal ambiguities and hazards associated with locating data outside the jurisdiction of the United States exist without regard to whether a country is a "designated country" under the TAA. GSA has provided no explanation for why its security concerns would be less acute in relation to data stored or processed in designated countries, which include, for example, Yemen, Somalia, and Afghanistan, versus data stored or processed in non-designated countries, such as Brazil, India or South Africa. Further, GSA has acknowledged that it has no basis to differentiate between countries with acceptable data rights regulations and those with unacceptable data rights regulations. In fact, examples articulated by the agency regarding concerns about foreign governments asserting jurisdiction over U.S. government data involve countries that would be considered designated countries under the solicitation.[8] Accordingly, we conclude that GSA has failed to proffer an adequate explanation for limiting non-U.S. based data centers to those countries listed as designated countries in accordance with the TAA, and we sustain the protest on this basis.
Government Community Cloud Requirement
The protesters generally argue that the government only cloud deployment model which is contemplated by the RFQ is unduly restrictive because it is essentially redundant with the less restrictive public cloud model, which is also contemplated by the RFQ.[9] In this regard, the protesters assert that, after accounting for the technical and security requirements set forth by the RFQ, there is no meaningful distinction between the public cloud deployment model and the government cloud deployment model.
Prior to addressing the protesters' challenge in this regard, we first review relevant definitions provided by the NIST "Special Publications 800 Series" guidelines, with which the vendors were advised to comply. For example, NIST Special Publication 800-145 is titled "The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing (Draft)," and provides general background on cloud computing deployment models. As relevant, according to NIST 800-145, in a public cloud, "the cloud infrastructure is made available to the general public or a large industry group and is owned by an organization selling cloud services." In contrast, in a community cloud, "the cloud infrastructure is shared by several organizations and supports a specific community that has shared concerns (e.g., mission, security requirements, policy and compliance considerations)." In addition, community clouds may also be managed by the users or a third party, either on premise or off premise. NIST 800-145, at 3.
Under this RFQ, the requirements for the public cloud sub-lot state that "[t]he Quoter shall provide a public cloud with an appropriate Government issued domain name for a Moderate Impact System." RFQ at 53. In comparison, the requirements for the government community cloud sub-lot state that "[t]he Quoter shall provide a cloud specifically limited to "Government clients" with an appropriate Government issued domain name for a Moderate Impact System." RFQ at 49. Thus, as the parties recognize, the only operational distinction between the public cloud and the government community cloud stems from what entities can have their data co'located in these two cloud deployment models. In the public cloud, an agency may be a co'tenant with any entity, government or non-government, while in the government community cloud, co'tenancy is restricted to "Government clients."[10] The protest therefore turns on whether the government community cloud's restriction on possible co-tenants provides a legitimate benefit to the government. We conclude that it does.
In response to the protesters' allegations, GSA argues that there are seven points of distinction between the two deployment models, based on a general discussion of the topic presented in NIST special publication NIST 800-146. We agree with the protesters' criticism of the agency's argument in nearly every regard,[11] but one. In the security area, we conclude that the evidence presented in the NIST Special Publication 800 Series of guidance demonstrates the existence of security vulnerabilities unique to co-tenants in a multi-tenant cloud environment. On the basis of these unique risks, we conclude that the identity of the co-tenants in a given cloud deployment model can present a meaningful security distinction. As it concerns the RFQ, we conclude that the risk mitigation afforded in this regard by a cloud deployment model limited to U.S. government entity co-tenants is sufficient to constitute a reasonable basis for the requirement.
Specifically, NIST 800-144, "Guidelines on Security and Privacy in Public Cloud Computing," identifies risks inherent in multi-tenancy and co-location of data, and establishes that limitations on multi-tenancy can contribute a level of security beyond that offered by the minimum security standards applicable to both the public cloud and government community cloud under the RFQ. NIST 800-144 explains that a cloud system is constructed from multiple layers. NIST 800-144, at 4. The lowest layer consists of the provider's physical plant, such as power, air conditioning, and communications connectivity. Id. On top of that layer is the hardware layer, which contains the physical processors, data storage components, and network routers that constitute the cloud's resources. Id. The remaining layers denote the "logical elements" of the cloud environment. Id. Through software--commonly software programs known as "virtual machine monitors" or "hypervisors"--the provider's physical hardware is divided into a far greater number of "virtual machines."[12] Id. at 19. The hypervisor software can then be programmed to task the virtual machines to process the subscribers' data, and to maintain logical separation between virtual machines to prevent subscribers from viewing other subscribers' data. Id. at 19, 22.
However, NIST 800-144 also explains that the hypervisors do not provide unassailable software and data isolation. The special report specifically states that:
Multi-tenancy in virtual machine-based cloud infrastructures, together with the subtleties in the way physical resources are shared between guest virtual machines, can give rise to new sources of threat. The most serious threat is that malicious code can escape the confines of its virtual machine and interfere with the hypervisor or other guest virtual machines.
NIST 800-144, at 23. The report provides several examples of "attack vectors" possible in a co-tenant environment, beginning with mapping the cloud provider's infrastructure, which researchers have shown to be possible in a cloud providers' service. Id. By mapping the cloud, an attacker can identify the location of a target virtual machine, and create new virtual machines directly co-tenant with the target virtual machine. Id. The attacker can then attempt to bypass or overcome the hypervisor's containment system, which has proven possible. Id. For example, NIST 800-144 states that "a serious flaw . . . was discovered in the power management code of [one] hypervisor," and that "a denial of service vulnerability, which could allow a guest virtual machine to crash the host computer along with other virtual machines being hosted, was also uncovered in . . . [another] popular virtualization software product." Id. at 23'24. The NIST report also explains several other, more indirect, attacks that can be staged from within a cloud system.[13]
While FISMA, HSPD-12, and OMB M-05-16, among other security related standards, apply to all cloud deployment models established under the RFQ, GSA explained that these standards provide only the framework, or baseline, for conducting an IT security inquiry. More specifically, GSA stated that:
dating back to 2002 [NIST and FISMA's guidance] . . . has developed a set of controls that are geared toward agency implemented solutions. And although even since 2002 we have had, you know, contractor-owned, contractor-operated or COCO, if you will, environments that provide these services, they're still generally viewed within the context of single tenancy. And that's why, especially as you look at FISMA, if you were to search FISMA for any controls regarding virtualization as a case in point, you know, specific technology that's generally employed within cloud environments--not all but some cloud environments--the only control that exists within NIST's interpretation for FISMA is one that says it's probably a good idea to virtualize.
Transcript, at 62-63.
Accordingly, in conducting the required FISMA certification and accreditation of multi-tenant outsourced cloud IT systems, heads of agencies must look beyond the bounds of the existing guidance in their examination of risk. Such an examination may lead to the consideration of the risks presented by co-tenancy of agency data with the data of, for example, potentially hostile foreign entities. Such a risk would simply not be present in a cloud limited to U.S. government entities.[14] Given NIST's substantiation of unique risks present in multi-tenant cloud environments, the additional layer of security provided by a cloud limited to U.S. government entities--the ability to operate in an environment exclusive of foreign, business, and other potentially hostile entities--presents, in our view, a meaningful benefit inherent to the government community cloud set forth in the RFQ, that could properly be considered as a part of an ordering agency's risk analysis. On this basis, we conclude that there is a meaningful security advantage to the government community cloud deployment model set forth in the RFQ, which justifies the inclusion of the requirement.
Ambiguous Technical Requirements
The protesters next allege that the common data center facilities requirements are ambiguous and potentially inconsistent with the provision of a public cloud. Generally, a contracting agency must provide offerors with sufficient detail in a solicitation to enable them to compete intelligently and on a relatively equal basis. AirTrak Travel et al., B-292101 et al., June 30, 2003, 2003 CPD para. 117 at 12-13. A solicitation ambiguity exists where two or more reasonable interpretations of the terms of the solicitation are possible. Ashe Facility Servs., Inc., B-292218.3, B'292218.4, Mar. 31, 2004, 2004 CPD para. 80 at 10.
The protesters' arguments center on requirement 17 c. of table 8 of the RFQ, and are informed by the entirety of requirement 17 of that table, which states:
17. The Quoter shall describe their solutions to provide effective separation of network traffic meeting the following objectives:
a. All inbound and outbound data, inclusive of all mail messages, including between the Government and other co'tenants, can be routed through a dedicated network connection.
b. The service must exclude co-tenant data, or any other third party data, not intended for the Government from being transmitted through a Government network connection.
c. The service must exclude data intended solely within the Government from being routed through an external (non'government) network connections [sic].
RFQ at 39. While the protesters represent that they understand the requirements associated with 17 a. and b., they have alleged that they do not understand the meaning of the term "external (non-government) network connections" in requirement 17 c. In this regard, they assert that the meaning of the term is not apparent from the requirements associated with 17 a. and b., and is not expressly defined within the RFQ. The protesters argue that given the lack of definition within the RFQ, the language of requirement 17 c. is impermissibly vague.
Prior to the closing date of the RFQ, GSA solicited questions from potential vendors concerning the RFQ's requirements. One such question specifically asked GSA to clarify, with respect to requirement 17 c., "what 'external network connection' refers to." Question and Answer No. 178. GSA did not provide a meaningful response to this question; rather, GSA generally advised that 17 c., "specifies the requirements that are applicable to cloud-based technology and services" and noted that the "requirements for this section are divided into the following areas: service'management requirements and data center facilities requirements." Id.
During the hearing convened for this protest, our Office requested that the parties further explain their interpretation and understanding of the above requirements. Concerning requirement 17 c., GSA explained as follows:
So this . . . really becomes a requirement of [the Department of Homeland Security's] Trusted Internet Connection referenced architecture. FISMA and the NIST controls only cover Trusted Internet Connection . . . And it really just implies that the agencyshould use, take, and follow the referenced architecture guidance that exists there. But it's through these OMB memorandums that agencies are instructed to use Trusted Internet Connection. And then the underlying requirements are spelled out in the referenced architecture, which is mentioned.
Transcript at 112-113.
Acknowledging that the 17 c. requirement stems from Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Trusted Internet Connection referenced architecture, GSA points us to the DHS' "Federal Network Security, Trusted Internet Connection (TIC) Update, July 29, 2009," (TIC Update) document to define the meaning of "external connection" in the context of requirement 17 c. It is not apparent however, that potential vendors would have understood the 17 c. requirement in the context of the TIC Update definition, where the RFQ did not otherwise incorporate or reference the TIC Update document. Moreover, while the DHS' TIC Update document does provide a meaningful definition of "external connection,"[15] it also identifies "external connection" as one of several "ambiguous terms" that the document hopes to clarify. TIC Update, July 29, 2009, at 5. Again, absent any reference to this document in the solicitation, or in response to the specific question seeking clarification of the 17 c. "external network connection" requirement, it is not apparent how vendors could have had a common understanding of the acknowledged "ambiguous" term. We therefore sustain this aspect of the protest as well.
We sustain the protesters' challenge to the data center facilities location requirement of the RFQ as well as their challenge regarding the ambiguity of requirement 17 c. in this solicitation. We recommend that GSA amend the RFQ to reflect its actual needs concerning non-U.S. data center locations, clarify its 17 c. requirements, reopen the competition, and allow offerors to submit new or revised proposals. We also recommend that the protesters be reimbursed the costs of filing and pursuing their protests, including reasonable attorneys' fees. Bid Protest Regulations, 4 C.F.R. sect. 21.8(d)(1). Technosource and TrueTandem should submit their certified claims for these costs, detailing the time spent and the costs incurred, directly to the agency within 60 days of receiving our decision. 4 C.F.R. sect. 21.8(f)(1).
The protest is sustained.
Lynn H. Gibson
General Counsel
[1] FAR sect. 25.003 defines "designated country" to include a World Trade Organization Government Procurement Agreement country, a Free Trade Agreement country, a least developed country, or a Caribbean Basin country.
[2] Among the general requirements, the RFQ further stated that "[t]he quoter shall disclose the locations by (City, State/Country) where data centers are located. For quoters offering data centers outside of the United States, locations shall adhere to FAR sect. 25.003 and quoters shall provide pricing for these data centers in accordance with section B." RFQ at 35.
[3] The protesters' primary protest arguments are addressed in this decision. Additional arguments not addressed in the decision were reviewed by our Office and found to be without merit.
[4] The protesters' also argue that the restriction violates FAR sect. 25.408(3), which specifies that a contracting officer must "not include technical requirements in solicitations solely to preclude the acquisition of eligible products." Because we conclude that the restrictions do not otherwise meet a legitimate government need and sustain the protest on that basis, we need not address the protester's argument in this regard.
[5] The agency and the protesters both acknowledge that all GSA Schedule 70 contract holders are subject to the TAA.
[6] In both its agency report and supplemental agency report, GSA argued that the data center location requirements did not put "companies from designated countries at any disadvantage against domestic [companies]," and agreed that "[w]here a company is established (the FAR measure for origin) and data center location are two entirely different things." Agency Report, Legal Memo, at 7. In its supplemental agency report, GSA reiterated that "[d]ata center location has nothing to do with where the quoter's company is established." Supplemental Agency Report, at 7. In post-hearing comments, GSA, without any explanation, reversed its position on whether data center location was relevant to the TAA origin of services analysis. For the first time, GSA argued that it is necessary to restrict data center location to assure compliance with the country of origin requirements of the TAA. In this connection, GSA argued that FAR sect. 25.402(a)(2), requiring the contracting officer to "determine the origin of services by the country in which the firm providing the services is established," should not be interpreted to mean that the origin of services is the country in which the firm is, for example, incorporated; rather, the agency suggests that the contracting officer should be able to consider the location of the servers as solely determinative of the origin of services. We disagree. A plain reading of FAR sect. 25.402(a)(2) dictates that the origin of services is determined based on the country in which the firm providing the service is legally established, not on the location from which the service is ultimately provided. Moreover, applying GSA's interpretation, cloud services could be provided by firms incorporated or headquartered in non'designated countries, e.g., China, simply because they will be using data servers located in a designated country. It is not apparent that such a result would be consistent with the TAA.
[7] Given GSA's explanation of the benefits of regulatory consistency, and the avoidance of cross-border data transit, it is apparent why agencies may be justified in requiring the maintenance of data and data servers within the United States.
[8] During the hearing at our Office, GSA cited problems with data maintained in Europe; however, many of the countries in Europe are defined as "designated countries" under FAR sect. 25.003 since many of the countries in Europe are parties to the World Trade Organization Government Procurement Agreement. Tr. at 22 and 38
[9] The protesters also assert that they are aware of only one entity currently offering cloud infrastructure that purports to meet the RFQ's definition of a government community cloud: Google, Inc.
[10] Although we ultimately deny the protesters challenge to the government community cloud requirement, since we sustain this protest on other grounds we encourage GSA to consider whether the government community cloud requirement could be better defined, and more substantially justified in an amended RFQ.
[11] The protester generally asserts, correctly, that the distinctions between a "public cloud" and "community cloud" as defined by NIST, do not translate to the public cloud and government community cloud under the RFQ, because under the RFQ, both deployment models are subject to identical common technical requirements.
[12] The NIST guidance also states that, while virtual machine technology is commonly used at this layer, other means of providing the necessary software abstractions are not precluded. NIST 800-144 at 4.
[13]GSA also stated, with regard to a multi-tenant environment that, "[i]t's all zeros and ones. Someone has a higher possibility of [hacking] into that than they would if I was completely segmented in a private community cloud, and even less if I had all my controls and my environment was completely hardware-specific to me. So, I have less possibility of someone coming into my system and cracking the code and hacking in to my system." Transcript, at 50-51.
[14] While limiting a cloud to U.S. government entities may not mitigate the risks associated with threats posed by persons operating within those government entities, such risks will always exist. The limitation does, however, insulate government entities from being unnecessarily exposed to threats posed by co-tenancy with actors which may join a public cloud specifically to exploit their co-tenancy status in order to obtain or corrupt government data.
[15] Specifically, the document states, in relevant part, that an "external connection" is a "physical or logical connection between information systems, networks, or components of information systems and networks that are, respectively, inside and outside of specific Department or Agency's (D/A) Certification and Accreditation (C&A) boundaries established by the D/A." TIC Update, July 29, 2009, at 10.
Aug 14, 2020
Noble Supply & Logistics, Inc.
We deny the protest.
Solers Inc., a Peraton Company
We deny the protest.
Aug 13, 2020
W&G Machine Corporation, Inc.
We deny the protest.
Peraton Inc.
We sustain the protest.
Department of the Treasury, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency; Federal Reserve System; Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation: Regulatory Capital Rule: Temporary Exclusion of U.S. Treasury Securities and Deposits at Federal Reserve Banks From the Supplementary Leverage Ratio for Depository Institutions
Aug 12, 2020
The i4 Group Consulting, LLC
We deny the protest.
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I'm pretty excited to play publisher Bethesda's first-person stealth game, Dishonored. It encompasses a dark theme that appeals to me, as well as a very neat steampunk style that I've always enjoyed in games.
But while we wait for its release later this year, why not play with the mysterious mask worn by the game's protagonist, Corvo? A banner on the official website directs you to it, where you can move the mask around and even take it apart.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Jessica Alba looked great, as usual, at the premiere of her new movie, "A.C.O.D.," in L.A. on Thursday night. She opted for a short skirt and '90s-esque belly-baring shirt. She was joined by the film's co-stars Adam Scott and Amy Poehler, who, of course, also star in "Parks and Recreation" together.
Photo: Time Life Pictures / Time & Life Pictures/Getty Image


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Pentax Unleashes New Ruggedized Cameras
WG-3 GPS and WG-3
In the mood for a new rugged camera? Today Pentax unveiled the WG-3 and the WG-3 GPS. The cameras beg you to test the limits by giving you features that have been designed to take a beating while still producing quality images. The WG-3 offers a 4x optical zoom lens (equivalent to about 25-100mm in the 35mm format) with the maximum aperture of F2.0 at minimum zoom, a back-illuminated 16 megapixel CMOS sensor, and souped-up shake reduction system. The camera has a 3-inch LCD screen and a pretty nifty wireless Qi (inductive power standard) recharging system for the battery. The camera's rugged features include a waterproof depth of 45 feet, shockproof up to 6.6 feet, coldproof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit and crushproof up to 220 pounds of force. The WG-3 features a texturized grip for easier handling. In addition, the WG-3 has six LED lights surrounding the lens barrel for easier focusing in dimly lit situations and to provide for improved macro shooting.
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What makes the WG-3 more expandable, though, is optional accessories like a lens adapter with 20mm wide-angle coverage and the SportMount Chest Harness for hands-free shooting.
The WG-3 GPS will be available in either purple or green for $349.95. The WG-3 is available in black or orange for a price of $299.95. Both will be available starting in March.
In addition to the WG-3, Pentax also announced the WG-10. Designed for adventure seekers, this point and shoot camera is a less expensive option yet provides a rugged design similar to the WG-3. Waterproof to 33 feet, shockproof up to 4.9 feet, coldproof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit, and crushproof up to 220 pounds of force, the WG-10 has just slightly less durability than the WG-3. The WG-10 offers a 14 megapixel backlit CMOS sensor and a triple anti-shake system. The 5X optical zoom lens has a 35mm equivalent of 28mm to almost 140mm.The camera also features LED macro lights and digital microscope mode enabling focusing as close as one centimeter from the subject.
The WG-10 will be available in mid-April in red for $179.95.


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Director Quentin Tarantino must have written a doozie of a role for a certain Django Unchained character; not only has Kevin Costner left the picture, but now Kurt Russell has exited as well. Both veterans were slated to play the role of Ace Woody, a villainous character who trains slaves to fight each other for public amusement. Granted, the role isn't feel-good like Man of Steel's Pa Kent or Miracle's Herb Brooks, but it's a Tarantino flick; no one gets out unscathed. Costner had previously cited scheduling difficulties for his departure from Django Unchained, but Russell's camp has yet to provide a reason. Slightly concerning is the fact that with a December 25th release date, there hasn't been a replacement announced just yet.
Sacha Baron Cohen also let slip that his planned cameo won't happen due to a scheduling conflict. The rest of the Django Unchained cast, however, needs little support, boasting Jamie Foxx, Kerry Washington, Leonardo DiCaprio, Christoph Waltz, Samuel L. Jackson, M.C. Gainey, Garrett Dillahunt, Dennis Christopher, Gerald McRaney, Laura Cayouette, Don Johnson, and Tom Savini. Hit the jump for more. [Update: We've added new information regarding Russell's role]
We have word via Variety reporter Jeff Sneider's Twitter account, that Russell has reportedly left Django Unchained. We will update with more news as it becomes available. Baron Cohen himself broke the news on The Howard Stern Show (via HitFix), saying that:
"That was going to be a cameo, but I had to drop out because of ['The Dictator's] press tour."
Baron Cohen's role was to be that of Scotty Harmony, a gambler who buys Django's wife, Broomhilda, as a companion. Check back for more updates as the casting situation sorts itself out. [Update: Beaks over at AICN says Russell's role "has essentially been absorbed by Walton Goggins, who plays the equally nasty Billy Crash.]
Here's the synopsis for Django Unchained:
Set in the South two years before the Civil War, "Django Unchained" stars Academy Award®-winner Jamie Foxx as Django, a slave whose brutal history with his former owners lands him face-to-face with German-born bounty hunter Dr. King Schultz (Academy Award®-winner Christoph Waltz). Schultz is on the trail of the murderous Brittle brothers, and only Django can lead him to his bounty. The unorthodox Schultz acquires Django with a promise to free him upon the capture of the Brittles – dead or alive.
Success leads Schultz to free Django, though the two men choose not to go their separate ways. Instead, Schultz seeks out the South's most wanted criminals with Django by his side. Honing vital hunting skills, Django remains focused on one goal: finding and rescuing Broomhilda (Kerry Washington), the wife he lost to the slave trade long ago.
Django and Schultz's search ultimately leads them to Calvin Candie (Academy Award®-nominee Leonardo DiCaprio), the proprietor of "Candyland," an infamous plantation where slaves are groomed by trainer Ace Woody (Kurt Russell) to battle each other for sport. Exploring the compound under false pretenses, Django and Schultz arouse the suspicion of Stephen (Academy Award®-nominee Samuel L. Jackson), Candie's trusted house slave. Their moves are marked, and a treacherous organization closes in on them. If Django and Schultz are to escape with Broomhilda, they must choose between independence and solidarity, between sacrifice and survival…
Written and directed by Academy Award®-winner Quentin Tarantino, DJANGO UNCHAINED is produced by Stacey Sher, Pilar Savone and Reginald Hudlin. The executive producers are Harvey and Bob Weinstein, Michael Shamberg, Shannon McIntosh, and James Skotchdopole. DJANGO UNCHAINED will be released in the U.S. on December 25, 2012, and internationally by Sony Pictures Releasing International.


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Publications Search
This publications portal is a repository of all IOM migration health publications from 2006 to present where IOM was a primary contributor.
Publications include peer-reviewed scientific papers, technical reports, training guides/manuals, policy briefs/discussion papers, factsheets, newsletters, research reviews, conference and poster presentations. These are categorized by topic, author, country/region covered as well as by year, language, and type of publication. The map reflects the countries covered by the publications.
To browse or search: simply use the filter options on the left-hand side. Alternatively, you can enter keyword/s in the search box. Selecting a specific publication will lead to a 'download' link or link to the website where the document is housed. Here is the step-by-step guide for your reference.
La salud de los migrantes internacionales en el mundo en vías de desarrollo: Reflexiones desde el lente de la desigualdad
Báltica Cabieses, Carlos Van der Laat
A global research agenda on migration, mobility, and health
Johanna Hanefeld, Jo Vearey, Neil Lunt, Sadie Bell, Karl Blanchet, Diane Duclos, Ludovica Ghilardi, Daniel Horsfall, Natasha Howard, Jo Hunter Adams, Mphatso Kamndaya, Caroline Lynch, Tackson Makandwa, Nuala McGrath, Moeketsi Modesinyane, Kate O'Donnell, Chesmal Siriwardhana, Richard Smith, Adrienne Testa, Kuda Vanyoro, Helen Walls, Kolitha Prabhash Wickramage, Cathy Zimmermann
Migration and health in the Sustainable Development Goals, In: Migration in the 2030 Agenda
Health of migrants: Resetting the agenda - Report of the 2nd Global Consultation Colombo, Sri Lanka, 21-23 February 2017
Julia Puebla Fortier, Davide Mosca, Jacqueline Weekers, Eliana Barragan, Julie Bauer
Integrated HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Biological and Behavioural Surveillance Survey among Key Populations in Somaliland
Calistus Masika
Integrated HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Biological and Behavioural Surveillance Survey among Key Populations in Somalia
Calistus Masika


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The mission of the Caruth Institute for Engineering Education is to increase the number and diversity of students who graduate from United States high schools with both the enthusiasm and knowledge to pursue the engineering careers that are necessary for the U.S. to compete in a global economy.
The SMU Lyle School of Engineering is committed to developing the new American engineer, one prepared to excel and lead in creating new economic opportunities while meeting the most difficult challenges facing society. The Lyle School maintains a steadfast focus on using engineering to address important issues both at home and around the world.


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By Spencer Price
It was 7:00AM and the temperature was already above 90 degrees. All indications were that the summer was going to be a scorcher. I had just arrived at the workshop – the first day of my summer job with a landscaping company. By day's end, our crew had mowed 13 lawns, spread new pine straw in the flower beds at an apartment complex, and trimmed rows and rows of hedges at a local community college. The work was hard but the pay was decent and, along with my part-time evening job at a nearby hospital, I would be able to earn enough money to return to college in the fall.
Prison as prison - not Motel 6
No Trackbacks


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LaHaye spotlighted as one of ACHA's toughest venues
February 4, 2014 | Lynchburg, Va.
In a first-hand account appearing on the achahockey.org website, Flames Hockey sports broadcaster Rett McGibbon and Club Sports video and media coordinator Patrick Strawn shared their impressions of what it is like for opposing ACHA Division I men's hockey teams to play in the high-energy environment generated by Liberty University fans at the LaHaye Ice Center.
The rink, the only one in the nation to host five ACHA teams from the same program (DI, II, and III men and DI and II women), is featured in the latest of a series of stories entitled "ACHA's Toughest Barns." Since opening in 2006, the Flames' DI men's team has gone 131-42 at LaHaye, helping it qualify for six of the past seven national tournaments and finish the season ranked in the top 20 each year and in the top 10 five times.
Read McGibbon's and Strawn's full story.
Liberty (24-6-2) is currently ranked No. 3 heading into this Friday and Saturday nights' games against Oakland, a team it met in the 2006 ACHA DII national championship game. The puck drops at 7 p.m. for both contests at LaHaye before the Flames conclude their regular season with home games Feb. 14-15 against West Virginia and Feb. 21 against the Richmond Generals Junior "A" team.


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Ran (aka Kick The Reverb) of The Sand Devils
Ron Eglit of The Surfaris
Mr Moto Paul Johnson playing with The Surfaris
Jim Fuller, lead guitar of the original Surfaris
The Eliminators
The BelAirs Eddie Bertrand playing with The Eliminators
Dave and Jeff (Mac) MacDonald from OuterWave, a very hot guitar player in his own right.
Dave Wronski doin' it up.
Howdy all.
Wanted to give y'all a short review of the outrageous show last week, the 1st Annual Surf 'O' Rama at The Gaslamp Bar & Grill in Long Beach. This was a Birthday tribute for Linda Miller, the driving force of the Surfin' Sunday Concert series put on by the International Surfing Museum in Huntington Beach. Linda works tirelessly to put on some of the finest surf shows each year at the Huntington Beach Pier and the Surf Museum
This was a 10 hour extravaganza of fine surf tunage. I was held hostage elsewhere for the 1st half of the show but was able to trudge through the rain to make it for the rip-snortin' second half. My grandson Gage and I made it just in the nick of time to see San Diego's own, The Sand Devils. Mi amigo Ran, lead guitarist (formerly leading the Israeli group The Astroglides) and his buddies gave a powerhouse 45 minutes of hard driving surf. We've been waiting for an album from them but new babies have slowed the progress a bit. Important things first!
After a quick tear down and setup, The Surfaris. Yes, The Surfaris. We were treated to Surfaris old and new. Jim Fuller, the original lead guitarist did a few numbers with some of the new Surfaris, Mr Moto himself, Paul Johnson! Also sharing lead licks was the exciting Ron Eglit, 20 + years as a DelTone with Dick Dale. Ron has been playing with the Surfaris for the last 5 years now. Got a chance to meet Paul Johnson after the show and got a signed CD, The BelAirs The Origins of Surf Music. We'll be hearin' a bit of that later.
Next up was The Eliminators who always put on a fantastic, high energy show. Then they introduced their special guest, another of the original BelAirs, Eddie Bertrand. Eddie strutted out for a couple of heavy twangers to a big howl from the crowd. Gage has been listening to surf music with his Papa for many years but this was his first live surf show. He told me that he never really got it before but you could tell by the look in his eyes, he sure did now. He was seeing some historic folks of the surf genre before his eyes and right up close.
The finale performance was by Outer Wave, the coordinators of this splendid show. Their consisted of their fine interpretations of many classics of the art. After wowing the crowd with one hit after another they unleashed their special guest. And unleashed is the right term to be used here folks. 'Cause when you bring the madman Dave Wronski up on stage, you better hold on. This boy can play like the devil was inside him! Dave from Slacktone fame and many other projects exudes so much energy that it gets the whole house going crazy. I didn't get a chance to talk with Dave after the show but we swapped a few emails after the show. Can't wait to see him and the rest of the Slacktone boys, Dusty and Sam play somewhere, anywhere soon.
With our hearts soaring, our ears ringing and our bellies full of Gaslamp's burgers, we wandered back home, feeling blessed to being able to see and hear some of the finest surf folks out there, ever.
I'm not much of a writer, not much of a photographer, but I hope this gets you some sense of how damn fine this night was.
Next year...Be There!
Surfin' Lungs "Surf Factor 8" 2016
2 hours ago


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Kim Kardashian had the blogs in a frenzy last week with movie and dinner date pictures with her rumored new beau, rapper and fashion designer Kanye West.
On the heels of the Kim/Kanye romance, E! announced the summer premiere date of the hit reality show "Keeping Up with the Kardashians," reported The Hollywood Reporter.
The show will return for a seventh season on Sunday, May 20 at a new time with an extended 18 episodes. The return of the Kardashian Klan will mark Kim 's return to reality since the end of her 72-day marriage to Kris Humphies, chronicled on the spinoff show "Kim & Kourtney Take New York."
U.S. & World
On the new season of "Keeping Up With the Kardashians," viewers can look forward to new beginnings and more family drama.
Kourtney Kardashian and her boyfriend Scott Disick are preparing for their second child, a baby girl. Khloe Kardashian continues to experience the first few years of marriage with her husband, NBA baller Lamar Odom
While his older sisters look for a new location for their DASH store in Calabasas, Calif., Rob Kardashian will try to break away from his younger brother role and find his own path to stardom beyond "Dancing With the Stars."
The youngest of the brood, Kylie and Kendell Jenner are teens with busy lives. In past seasons Kendall Jenner launched her modeling career, while Kylie struggled with boys and her dad Bruce Jenner. The Hollywood Reporter said that on season seven the girls will break out of their older sister's shadows.
Mom-a-ger Kris Jenner will continue to manage her family empire while she works on her marriage to husband, Bruce who said that he feels "taken for granted," according to the The Hollywood Reporter.
One big question is whether Kanye West will appear on the new season.
Mr. West, as he often calls himself, made a cameo on "Kourtney & Kim Take New York" in the past, but was just a "friend." Now he and Kim seem to be closer than ever.
In a single, titled "Theraflu" West premiered last week, the Grammy award-winning rapper shocked airwaves with an ode to Kim K.
The new season premieres on E! 9 p.m., Sunday, May 20.


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£28.95 £57.90
|Size guide
With the stunning colours of the sea, sky and sunsets of beautiful Mykonos.
Creatively cut with a higher leg line creating an elegant silhouette that flatters all. The tube swimsuit is versatile and easy to wear, just slip on, slip off with no fiddly fasteners to worry about. Features a removable halter neck strap to adjust to your style and add support when required. Handcrafted in the Kiniki manufactory from our exclusive Tan Through fabric, resulting in a breathable, lightweight garment that helps you achieve an all over suntan and minimise tan lines.
• Made In England
100% Transol Tan Through Fabric
Transol fabric, better known as 'Tan Through' is an exclusive, patented material, developed by Kiniki to allow the suns tanning rays to pass through it, helping you achieve that all over golden glow and minimise tan lines.
Making The Most of Tan Through Swimwear
For the complete guide to maximising the tanning potential of your swimwear and caring for your garment, please visit our Tan Tips page.
Sun Safety
Please take care when enjoying your time in the sun. It is important to protect your skin with a suitable sun cream offering UVA & UVB protection.
Mykonos Tan Through Beach Dress£38.45 £76.90
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Tan Through swimwear is a unique advancement in swimwear technology. Designed to reduce tan lines and help you achieve an all over golden glow by allowing the suns tanning rays to pass through the patented Transol® fabric. Furthermore, Tan Through fabric dries 3X faster than normal swimwear, and allows your skin to breathe - keeping you cool and comfortable at all times.Find out more


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Make Extra Cash Typing At Home
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Your Friend In Success,


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Government term
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 results.
A third set of fixes to the ETS has been made as the Government continues its work with industry to reach our climate change goals, Climate Change Minister James Shaw and Forestry Minister Shane Jones said.
The Wellbeing Budget provides opportunities to grow and modernise New Zealand's economy while ensuring a just transition to a low emissions future. We need to preserve and enhance our environment, as part of the foundation for our long-term wellbeing.
Changes to the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) will see 89 million more trees planted in the coming years and an extra 45 million tonnes of carbon dioxide stored in New Zealand's forests.
Forestry Minister Shane Jones and Minister for Climate Change James Shaw have today opened consultation on improvements to the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS); New Zealand's main tool for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Forestry Minister Shane Jones and Climate Change Minister James Shaw have released a consultation paper proposing 12 improvements to forestry regulations in the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (NZETS).


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Serene Green™
Bring some calm to someone special in your life. Inspired by the beauty of nature, our subtle, charming arrangement is hand-designed with the freshest blooms in delicate shades of green and white, arranged in a classic gathering vase tied with raffia. Just one look will have them smiling and will reflect your thoughtfulness!
While the color green often reminds us of plants, there are also many types of naturally green flowers. Not only are green flowers unique, they also have their own special meaning. Green flowers symbolize good fortune, youthfulness, and renewal. The color green itself has been proven to be an emotionally positive color, often eliciting feelings of relaxation, calmness and happiness. That makes this arrangement of green and white flowers perfect for bringing serenity to your life. With green roses, white lilies, green poms, white alstroemeria and more, your recipient is sure to love this arrangement and thank you for your thoughtfulness.


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Construction crews headed back to work on Tuesday, a day after a driver for a steel company died when rebar fell on him at the construction site of Levi's Stadium where the San Francisco 49ers are expected to play.
Turner-Devcon, the main contractor for the $1.3 billion stadium in Santa Clara, held safety review classes for the roughly 900 employees working on the job. The company, based in New York and Milpitas, Calif., hopes to prevent another tragedy, like the one that befell Edward Erving Lake Jr., 60, of Vacaville, who was crushed to death about 6:30 a.m. Monday when a pile of rebar fell on his delivery truck.
Lake's death - the second Levi's Stadium construction death since June - rattled other workers on the job.
"I'm worried for my safety," Ross Fuentes told NBC Bay Area, adding that he works on rooftops.
MORE: Steel Company Driver Dies at Levi's Stadium
Santa Clara police deemed Lake's death accidental, and Cal-OSHA allowed crews back on the job Tuesday, despite an ongoing investigation into just how Lake was killed.
A family spokeswoman declined to be interviewed, citing the need for privacy.
According to Peter Melton, spokesman for California Department of Industrial Relations, or Cal-OSHA, Lake worked for Gerdau Ameristeel. He added that the only new information to add was that Lake was standing on the driver's side of the flatbed when he was killed, while the forklift and operator were on the passenger side of the truck.
A Gerdau spokeswoman emailed that she was "saddened" to confirm that a worker from the company's Napa Reinforcing Steel facility died, but she declined to say much more, citing the pending investigation.
Officials from 49ers organization and Turner-Devcon echoed similar sentiments.
On June 11, a 63-year-old elevator mechanic doing work at Levi's Stadium died when he was standing on a ladder beneath the counter-weight of an elevator when the weight came down and struck him on the east side of the construction site. That death shut down construction for two days. His union is still collecting money for the Donald E. White Memorial Fund. Melton on Monday said the company in that case - Schindler Elevator Corporation - will not be fined or cited for White's death.
Melton said that Cal-OSHA investigators determined that White knew the elevator was in motion, but stayed in the elevator pit. Melton said that White was experienced and was in communication with the elevator operator about what was going on. It is unknown why he stayed where he did.
Levi's Stadium is under construction and will soon be home to the San Francisco 49ers football team. The $1 billion, 68,500-seat stadium is expected to be done in time for the 2014 National Football League season.


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All Pratesi bags in this collection can have fast shipping available, so buy yours today!
The Roccastrada Woman Bag is one of the many hand made products by Pratesi - Florence, Italy.
Made using only pure cow leather and a unique vegetable based tanning technique, the secret tanning formula cannot be found elsewhere in the world and makes the bag age with character, value and fascination. Weighing 0.3 kg, this exquisite bags features a metal zip closure and long leather handles. The Roccastrada Woman Bag is now available in a series of colours and it comes packed with its own complimentary cotton cloth bag plush.


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There is irony and tragedy in the death in Mexico last year of 55-year-old U.S. Army veteran Manuel de Jesus Castano.
The irony is that Castano, a life-long legal U.S. resident deported for a past criminal conviction that had nothing to do with his Army service, was allowed into the U.S. for burial -- with full military honors -- at Fort Bliss, Texas. It was, as far as his family knew, the last and only veteran's benefit he was entitled to.
Deported in 2011 from El Paso, Texas, where he was getting healthcare from the Department of Veterans Affairs for Lupus and Lou Gehrig's disease, his conditioned worsened, according to his nephew. He died last June following a heart attack.
The tragedy is that Castano, his family and his supporters -- including other "banished veterans" forced to live outside the U.S. -- never knew that he was entitled to VA healthcare, including medications, regardless of his deported status.
VA spokeswoman Jo Schuda told Military.com that a deported veteran who already has VA healthcare can use the VA's Foreign Medical Program, which is set up for veterans traveling or living overseas. Under the program, the VA assumes responsibility for necessary medical services related to a veteran's service-connected medical conditions.
The same program can be used by vets submitted a claim and requiring evaluations and physicals, she said.
Even education benefits remain available.
"Veterans who are eligible for education benefits and have been deported may use their benefits to attend school outside of the U.S. as long as they enroll in a VA approved program," she said. The VA's Weams Institution Search website lets veterans find approved schools and universities both within the U.S. and overseas.
Deported veterans and their supporters contacted by Military.com for this story said they were not aware they could get benefits. Army veteran Hector Barajas, founder of a group devoted to ending the deportations and permitting those already sent from the U.S. to return, only recently submitted a disability claim just to see what might happen.
The application, sent in via registered mail, was accompanied by a claim from fellow deported veteran Fabian Rebolledo. Both men previously served with the 82nd Airborne at Fort Bragg, N.C. Rebolledo was receiving payments for a non-service connected disability until he was deported.
He said he continues to get medication because his mother, who is still in the U.S., buys it and mails it to him.
"I can't see a doctor, though," he told Military.com, like other veterans apparently unaware of the overseas program.
The program was set up to ensure that veterans who retire abroad or who are traveling can get their healthcare needs taken care of, according to the VA.
Victor Hinojosa, an Army veteran and U.S. citizen with family in Mexico, said he has asked VA officials in the past about help for the deported vets, only to be told there was nothing anyone could do. Hinojosa, an Army medic who served at Brook Army Medical Center during the Vietnam War, met Barajas a few years ago, when Barajas was working in a care facility for retirees, one of whom was Hinojosa's father.
He isn't surprised that the deported veterans were not told they could still apply for and use veterans' benefits. Immigration and Customs Enforcement falls under the Department of Homeland Security, an agency that has a different mission and focus that the VA.
"Homeland security is running the show now. As far as Hector and Fabian told me, when they put [people awaiting deportation] in these detention camps in Arizona and elsewhere, they're stripped of everything--– VA cards and everything else are just thrown in the trash somewhere," Hinojosa said. "The VA doesn't exist as far as [DHS] is concerned."
Barajas currently works as a telemarketer in Mexico, where he has also turned his apartment into an information clearinghouse and support center for what he and others call "banished veterans." He and some of the other veterans now living in Mexico try to help those newly arrived find places to live and work. There are at least six other veterans he knows there interested in applying for benefits.
Hinojosa said some vets he's spoken with would be willing to stay on in Mexico if they could get their benefits, though most want at least the right to return to the U.S.
"I want these guys to get their [medical] treatment. At least give them that," he said.
Thousands of veterans -- no one can say how many for sure -- have been deported for legal violations great and small since the mid-1990s.
That's when Congress, responding to ever popular tough-on-crime and anti-immigrant pressure, passed legislation mandating the deportation of resident aliens convicted of crimes. The law provided no exceptions for how long the individual lived in the U.S. or whether he was a veteran or even active-duty servicemember.
As a result, veterans young and old have been put on buses and planes and sent to countries that many had only dim memories of -- if any.
In one of the most bizarre cases, a Persian Gulf War vet who had been adopted in Germany as an infant by an American military family was deported to Germany because he never acquired American citizenship. His service, honorable discharge, and the facts he was half African-American and did not speak a word of German meant nothing.
They are veterans of the most recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and also of the Vietnam War. Two of these are Manuel and Valente Valenzuela, who have been fighting for three years to keep from being deported to Mexico.
"They want us to admit we're not American citizens, and we're fighting to say we are," Manuel, who served in Vietnam from 1971 to 1972. Though both men were born in Mexico, their mother was born in the U.S., but moved to and lived in Mexico for a time before returning home.
Manuel said the conviction that has put him on the deportation list is a drunk driving, disorderly and resisting arrest 25 years ago. He said his brother, who served with the Army's 101st Airborne during the Tet Offensive in 1968, was convicted in a domestic violence case about a dozen years ago.
At a rally for President Obama last July, they managed to meet the commander-in-chief and briefly and quickly told him what they were facing.
"He said, 'OK, I'll check into it,' " Manuel recalled. Obama was turning to leave, but Manuel said he still had his hand in a shake. "I pulled it right back and I said, 'Mr. President -- and I raised my hand with the banner -- and said, 'Please take time to open this banner with me and look at it.'"
Obama directed the Secret Service to help Valenzuela open the banner, and then looked at it. Manuel said the president "shook his head" in sympathy, but says he never heard back from the White House.
Nevertheless, he said he had tears in his eyes after getting Obama to read the banner "because I had completed my mission."
"I'm holding [Obama] responsible for all this now," he said. "He's our commander-in-chief. He is responsible to us, the people of the United States. That is something to be honored and reconciled -- to take care of veteran. Not to let Homeland Security or any other departments throw us away."


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ASTANA, Kazakhstan, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- Julian Knowle and Alexander Peya teamed for a doubles win Saturday that kept Austria alive in a best-of-five Davis Cup series versus Kazakhstan.
Singles wins Friday by Andrey Golubev and Evgeny Korolev had Kazakhstan on the cusp of clinching the first-round series.
However, Knowle and Peya responded with a 7-6 (7-5), 6-3, 7-6 (7-3) victory over the team of Golybev and Yuri Schukin in the must-win situation.
The teams each had two breaks in the first set but the Austrians didn't see a break point the rest of the way, winning three-quarters of the points on serve in the second and third sets.
Austria's win means the series will be decided in Sunday's reverse singles. Golubev is to take on Jurgen Melzer in the first match Sunday followed by Korolev playing Andreas Haider-Maurer.
The winner of the Austria-Kazakhstan series moves to the Davis Cup quarterfinals against either the Czech Republic or Switzerland. That series was 1-1 after Friday's play.


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The original cast-in-place, colored and imprinted architectural concrete paving. The imprinting tools produce patterns in the surface of the concrete in much the sam...
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It can be a difficult task to try to
paint a mental picture of how the finished product will look for our clients,
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Antony Dickson / AFP - Getty Images
Shark fins drying in the sun cover the roof of a factory building in Hong Kong on Jan. 2, 2013.
Paul Hilton / EPA
Approximately 18 thousand shark fins are left out to dry on top of an industrial building in Hong Kong's Kennedy Town district on Jan. 2, 2013.
Bobby Yip / Reuters
Shark fins, which cost between HK$2,880 ($369) and HK$3,580 ($459) per Chinese catty (1 pound), are seen on display inside a dried seafood store in Hong Kong on Jan. 2, 2013.
Shark fin traders in Hong Kong have taken to drying freshly sliced fins on rooftops since a public outcry over them drying the fins on public sidewalks forced them to move the trade out of sight.
Activists have raised concerns that the over-harvesting of fins is causing an environmental calamity. Although sales have fallen in recent years Hong Kong remains one of the world's biggest markets for shark fins, which are used to make soup that is an expensive staple at Chinese banquets.
-- European Pressphoto Agency, Agence France-Presse, Reuters
Bobby Yip / Reuters
Thousands of pieces of shark fin are dried on the rooftop of a factory building in Hong Kong on Jan. 2, 2013. The fins were shipped from an unknown location and unloaded at a nearby pier to be dried on the rooftop.
Bobby Yip / Reuters
Workers lay out pieces of shark fin to dry on a rooftop of a factory building in Hong Kong on Jan. 2, 2013. Local sales of the luxurious gourmet food have fallen in recent years due to its controversial nature, but activists demand a total shark fin ban in the city, labelled by some as the shark fin capital of the world.


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The Boston Red Sox today became the third major league baseball team to send a message of support to LGBT young people and a message of inclusion to its fans. The minute-long video features three very recognizable faces from the Red Sox organization - third baseman Kevin Youkilis, catcher (and team captain) Jason Varitek, and Red Sox manager Terry Francona. The Red Sox also became the first team to include the voices of its fans and off-the-field staff, by including: Eric Maitland, a Red Sox greeter and Wheelock College counselor; TJ Connelly, Fenway Park's DJ and member of the Red Sox Fan Services & Entertainment department; Kristen Rosa, Smith College student and Red Sox fan; and Alison Tippett, a student at Lexington High School and daughter of Red Sox Director of Baseball Information Services Tom Tippett. The team said in a statement:
"Bullying is something that has touched many of our lives either personally or through someone we love," said Senior Vice President of Public Affairs/Marketing Susan Goodenow. "We are proud of dedicated Red Sox fans like 12-year-old Sam Maden who took the courageous step recently to publicly stand up against bullying of LGBT youth, and we are honored to join Sam and others throughout Red Sox Nation in support of the It Gets Better Project."
The Red Sox want to thank The Trevor Project and GLAAD for their assistance with the production of this PSA.As we reported when this was announced, the Red Sox organization has been thinking about ways to send a positive message to its fans about LGBT inclusion for quite some time. (Several members of the Red Sox, and Kevin Youkilis in particular, were among the first to reach out to Boston Herald columnist Steve Buckley when he came out earlier this year.) This "It Gets Better" video (inspired by a 12 year-old fan who started an online petition) will likely be just the start. We have been speaking with several other MLB teams who are either considering making similar statements in support of LGBT youth or are already in the process of creating them. We hope the Red Sox' excellent contribution to the dialogue around inclusion in the world of sports encourages even more teams to participate.


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Royal Chain Presents: Angelica Collection
expressions of the mind, heart and soul
Easily adjustable bracelets with charms that let a woman show how she feels, what she believes in, and who she is.
With over 900 bracelets from which to choose, and the strength of the Royal Chain Group behind it, Angelica promises to be a long-lasting success story.
• Donates $.25 of each bracelet to Generation Rescue.*
• Features unique designs.
• Uses only recycled metals.
*Generation Rescue supports programs to improve the quality of life for those affected by autism.
**Must be an approved Angelica program retailer
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Items 1-12 of 326


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Castrol™ is Land Rover's global lubricants partner. Every Land Rover engine starts its life with Castrol oil inside. Land Rover customers receive the same quality oil in servicing, that Land Rover demands when their vehicle was built.
Available at your local Land Rover Dealership
- Castrol has been Land Rover's official lubricant technology partner for over 11 years supplying Land Rover dealers with dedicated Castrol Professional oils.
- Castrol EDGE™ Professional is exclusively recommended by Land Rover.
Our Strongest Oil is Titanium Strong
- Castrol EDGE Professional is boosted with TITANIUM FST™, which doubles our oil's film strength, preventing oil film breakdown and reducing friction to help maximize engine performance. It's ready to perform however the driver and engine demand.
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* In our variable speed Fluid Strength Test, Castrol EDGE Professional boosted with TITANIUM FST™ gave up to 45% less metal-to-metal contact than a major competitor's product. Products representing 61% of our 2012 sales volume were tested.


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J. D. Heyes
Natural News
Dec 26, 2012
If the elites in our country are anything they are consistent. Consistently hypocritical.
In a passionate speech just days after the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings, National Rifle Association Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre made what many saw as a bold, outside-the-box suggestion for keeping schools safer moving forward: Put trained, armed guards in them as a way to thwart future attacks by well-armed lunatics and crazies who are doped up on psychotropic drugs:
…[F]or all the noise and anger directed at us over the past week, no one – nobody – has addressed the most important, pressing and immediate question we face: How do we protect our children right now, starting today, in a way that we know works? The only way to answer that question is to face up to the truth. Politicians pass laws for Gun-Free School Zones. They issue press releases bragging about them. They post signs advertising them. And in so doing, they tell every insane killer in America that schools are their safest place to inflict maximum mayhem with minimum risk.
The politics of hypocrisy
Mocked by an absurdly biased mainstream media, labeled as "crazy" by left-wing pundits and politicians, LaPierre went on to point out the blatant hypocrisy of those who have condemned him and his suggestion as unworkable, unwise and simply unthinkable:
How have our nation's priorities gotten so far out of order? Think about it. We care about our money, so we protect our banks with armed guards. American airports, office buildings, power plants, courthouses – even sports stadiums – are all protected by armed security. We care about the President, so we protect him with armed Secret Service agents. Members of Congress work in offices surrounded by armed Capitol Police officers. Yet when it comes to the most beloved, innocent and vulnerable members of the American family – our children – we as a society leave them utterly defenseless, and the monsters and predators of this world know it and exploit it.
This hypocrisy was epitomized by none other than NBC's David Gregory, who badgered LaPierre over his stance during a Dec. 23 interview:
You proposed armed guards in school. We'll talk about that in some detail in a moment. You confronted the news media. You blamed Hollywood and the gaming industry. But never once did you concede that guns could actually be part of the problem. Is that a meaningful contribution, Mr. LaPierre, or a dodge?
In trying to be too clever by half, Gregory went on. Citing mass shootings at Columbine and Virginia Tech, both incidents in which armed guards or police officers were present on the grounds, he tried to bait LaPierre: "But you would concede that, as good as an idea as you think this is, it may not work. Because there have been cases where armed guards have not prevented this kind of massacre, this kind of carnage. I want you would concede that point, wouldn't you?"
Only the privileged deserve protection?
Not so surprisingly, Gregory himself conveniently left out the fact that he sends his children to the Quaker school Sidwell Friends where there is a security department consisting of 11 personnel, according to the Weekly Standard, many of whom are police officers and therefore presumed armed.
But even if they aren't, Gregory's kids – and those of a number of political and media elites who also send their children there – will benefit from the full-time Secret Service protection afforded Obama's children, who attend the school. The others whose children attend Sidwell represent a cornucopia of voices now calling for more gun laws, stricter gun control and outright gun bans.
Finally, there is this: Gregory smugly asserted that the armed guards at Columbine and Virginia Tech did nothing to prevent the armed attacks on those schools.
Fine. But I have to ask: Would he consider placing his children in a school without armed guards? Is he willing to take a chance with the lives of his kids to practice what he and others who hold his point of view (and who also have kids in elite, well-protected schools) condescendingly preach?
We here at Natural News highly doubt it.
This article was posted: Wednesday, December 26, 2012 at 6:40 am


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Thinking about cancer or dealing with cancer risk can be scary or overwhelming, but we believe that receiving information and resources is comforting, empowering, and lifesaving.
Mastectomy is removal of breast tissue to treat or prevent breast cancer. "Unilateral mastectomy" is the surgical removal of one breast. "Bilateral mastectomy" is the removal of both breasts. "Prophylactic mastectomy" or "risk-reducing mastectomy" refers to the removal of healthy breasts to reduce a woman's risk of developing breast cancer. Bilateral prophylactic mastectomy is the most effective means of reducing a woman's risk; however, the benefits of such surgery depend on each woman's individual risk. Because even the most experienced breast surgeon cannot remove all breast tissue, a small risk of developing breast cancer remains after prophylactic mastectomy.
Although effective, some consider risk-reducing mastectomy to be a drastic way to lower cancer risk. A woman's decision to remove her healthy breasts is highly personal. Confronting your personal cancer risk can be confusing and frustrating. If you are a high-risk woman trying to choose the best risk-management option, you need a clear sense of your personal risk as possible and an understanding of the potential benefits, risks and side effects of risk-reducing surgery. Therefore it is important to consult with a specialist in cancer genetics when determining your risk for breast cancer and making risk-management decisions that are best for you. Stay in contact with a genetics expert for updates on current knowledge.
Updated 12/29/2016


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Frequently Asked Questions
Street Sweeping
Why does Minneapolis sweep the streets?
Our goal is to keep our City clean and our neighborhoods livable. Learn about the environmental benefits of street sweeping.
Why do I need to move my car during street sweeping?
Moving vehicles off a street scheduled for sweeping allows City crews to thoroughly clean the street from curb-to-curb. One parked car equals nearly three car lengths of space that can't be swept because the street sweeping equipment must leave room to avoid it. Crews post "No Parking" signs the day before they are scheduled for sweeping; if vehicles are not moved to make way for sweeping crews, they will be tagged and/or towed to the Minneapolis Impound Lot.
How will I know when my street will be swept?
- Signs - City crews will post "No Parking" signs during the morning of the day before the street is actually swept. The signs are posted at least 24 hours before the sweeping begins. The signs specify the day that street sweepers will be on that block. For street sweeping scheduled on Mondays, "No Parking" signs are posted on the previous Friday.
- Online – Try the Street Lookup tool.
- Phone Alerts - Minneapolis is also using its Phone Alert System to notify City residents about street sweeping. Residents with listed telephone numbers may receive a telephone call the evening before their block is scheduled for street sweeping. The system will leave a short, pre-recorded message if the telephone is answered.
When can I park on my street again?
Parking is banned from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM on the day a street is scheduled to be swept. "No Parking" signs will clearly indicate the day and times. City crews will remove the signs as soon as they are completely done sweeping the streets curb-to-curb. Do not park on the streets as long as there are "No Parking" signs posted and even if the street appears to have been cleared, because sweeping is completed in several stages.
Why can't I sweep leaves into the street in Minneapolis
Residents should not rake their leaves and other debris into city streets – it's bad for our lakes and waterways and it's against the law (Title 17, § 427.270 of the Minneapolis Code of Ordinance).
Leaves are natural but decomposing leaves on streets and sidewalks can wash into storm drains and eventually end up in Minneapolis' lakes, streams and the Mississippi River. Leaves over-fertilize lake water and encourage harmful aquatic plants and algae to thrive. The result is murky lake water that isn't good for swimming and fishing and which harms wildlife.
Collect and bag all yard waste and place it by your regular recycling and garbage containers. City crews will haul yard waste. Visit the Yard Waste Web page for more information or call (612) 673-2917.
How can I retrieve my car if it's towed
If you discover your car is missing after the street sweeping operation, call the Minneapolis Impound Lot at 612-673-5777 with your vehicle's license plate number and last location where your vehicle was parked.
If your car was towed, visit the Minneapolis Impound Lot for their address and hours of operation. You will need to bring documents to prove the ownership of the vehicle. In addition to towing and storage charges, you will receive a parking ticket.
What is an "Unscheduled Route" in the Street Lookup?
There are many downtown streets and streets in other commercial areas that are routinely swept at night without the need to move parked vehicles. Some streets may have permanent parking restrictions that allow crews to sweep at any time. Therefore, they are not included in this service. These streets will be referred to as "Unscheduled Routes" in the Street Lookup.
Last updated Apr 17, 2020


text: I have come across a stamp collection belonging to my great great aunt. There are probably about 10,000 stamps in it- alot of which surprisingly are unused still with the gum on the back. These are old old old stamps and I would like to find out what the best way is to find values for these. Is there a good website for this? What do I look for in a stamp to be considered "mint" condition?


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At Salisbury Antiques we have a large selection of stock, mostly comprising of English and Continental 18th and 19th Century furniture. We also have a good selection of antique country furniture from both England and France with some more extravagant walnut pieces from the Low Countries. Salisbury Antiques now also stocks a selection of good quality painted antique furniture to cater for those going for the more contemporary look but with added character.
To compliment an impressive array of furniture, Salisbury Antiques offers a mix of antique interiors, including a fantastic selection of antique mirrors ranging from charming antique dressing table mirrors to palatial antique overmantel mirrors. The Centre also houses many other period and decorative items for the home such as antique oil paintings, antique bronzes, and antique clocks. There is also a well stocked cabinet of antique weaponry, always housing something of interest to the avid collector.
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A pair of prints of birds of paradise by John Gould.65cm (25.6in) - High56cm (22.0in) - Wide
Height : 65 cm - 25.59 in
Width : 56 cm - 22.05 in
Salisbury Antiques has clarified that the pair of 'Birds of Paradise' prints by John Gould has a date/period of manufacture of tbc.
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This item is located in Wiltshire, United Kingdom.
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George III Mahogany Miniature Chest of Drawers
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Landscape with a Figure in a Punt c.1900
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Art Deco Oak Coffee Table
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$1,571 €1,329
Large French Armchair c.1880
$1,171 €992
Pair of French Ormolu Wall Sconces
$1,564 €1,324
Set of 6 George IV Mahogany Dining Chairs
$1,505 €1,274
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$2,422 €2,049
Regency Hall Chair
$517 €438
Rosewood Card Table Stamped William Priest c.1830
Superb Pair of English Pier Cabinets
$3,730 €3,157
18th Century Mahogany Supper Table
$1,283 €1,086
19th Century Mahogany & Leather Ottoman
$910 €770
19th Century Carved Leather Armchair
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George II Mahogany Table Stand
$753 €637
Pair of Large Prints of 17th Century Lady & Gentleman
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IN living with Mama - Her living with Me - I have considered a few things we have in common this am:
1. I hate the TV on during the day/Mama loves the TV on first thing
Common Ground: We are both PASSIONATE about the TV
2. Mama likes the whites to be all Martha White Whiter than White/ I like clean underwear.
Common Ground: We both know how to find the Washing Machine
3. Mama wants me to take care of stuff/ I have other stuff to take care of.
Common Ground: It's all stuff.
4. Mama is a pessimist. Period. She considers this solid thinking/Ultimately, when all is said and done - I am an optimist. Mama considers this living with either your head in a) a hole b) the clouds.
Common Ground: Opposite sides but same coin called Life.
5. I have a favorite coffee cup/Mama has put bacon grease in my favorite coffee cup
Common Ground: We can both reach my favorite cup
I was actually going for the hole in the clouds. You know the one with the silver lining. That single shot of sunshine that rays down like it has found Holy Ground. That one tiny scrap that says in the middle of all, in spite of all, it's gonna be alright. Now I gotta find my underwear, run through the living room with my dirty underwear stuffed in my ears so I don't hear fake news, real news, any news that will rock me off my work on my book boat. Of course I may just skip out the back door on the way to that washing machine, find that ray of sunshine and bask in the rock solid reality that it has broken through the storm. And, so have I.
How are things in your world?
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July 2020