From my archive of press clippings:
Stars and Stripes
COLA jumps $150 in Germany, Italy
Stars and Stripes European edition, Friday, April 17, 2009
Troops in Germany and Italy got a $150 monthly bump in their cost-of-living allowance starting Wednesday, although for many in Germany, the increase could be short-lived.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"No reason was given for the increase in COLA, though the dollar has lost some strength against the euro in recent weeks.
But, troops should temper any celebration of the extra money in their paycheck: Last month, the committee announced that servicemembers in Germany would see a $200 cut in their monthly COLA as a result of rising prices for goods in the U.S. "
_____
To calculate COLA, got to the committee’s Web site at: http://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/perdiem/ocform.html.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Sunday, September 6, 2009
ID - VWP: Further Guidance and Talking Points on Ending the E-Passport Exemption for Emergency and Temporary Passports
From my archive of press clippings:
Immigration Daily
VWP: Further Guidance and Talking Points on Ending the E-Passport Exemption for Emergency and Temporary Passports
Reference Document: STATE 058117, 06/09
TO ALL DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR POSTS
1. Summary. This cable was coordinated with DHS. Reftel A announced the end of the validity of non-electronic emergency and temporary passports for travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Paragraph 2 gives talking points regarding VWP-compliant passport requirements for use with host governments. The Department will forward via email a copy of the CBP information sheet for travelers to all VWP posts and any other posts that request them. End Summary.
2. Talking Points for use with Host Governments of pre-2008 VWP countries (NOTE: Nationals of countries admitted to the VWP in 2008 have been required since their admission to travel on e-passports, regardless of the passport type - regular, emergency, or temporary):
-- The various laws governing the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) require that travel to the United States under the VWP must be with an electronic passport (e-passport) if that passport was issued on/after October 26, 2006.
-- The law does not provide an exception for temporary and emergency passports. Therefore, effective July 1, 2009, all emergency or temporary passports must be e-Passports to be eligible for travel to the United States, including transit through the United States, under the VWP.
-- The USG does not wish to inhibit legitimate emergency travel for those who are not able to acquire an e-passport before their travel.
-- Travelers who must travel on non-electronic emergency or temporary passports should make every attempt to obtain a U.S. Visa. U.S. Embassies and Consulates will accommodate emergency visa applications to the extent possible.
-- Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at U.S. ports of entry have the authority to grant discretionary waivers of the e-passport requirement to those VWP travelers who are determined to be otherwise admissible and who truly are traveling in emergency circumstances or are legitimately unable to obtain an electronic passport or a U.S. visa.
-- CBP also intends to exercise discretion with respect to any fines levied on air carriers for boarding travelers with non-electronic emergency or temporary passports. Guidance to this effect has already been sent to the air carriers by CBP.
-- Emergency or temporary passports that are e-passports will not be affected.
-- Any passport -- emergency, temporary, or regular -- issued before October 26, 2006, by a country that had joined the VWP before 2008 must meet the VWP passport requirements in place at the time the passport was issued. Those requirements are not affected by this change. See travel.state.gov or www.cbp.gov for the requirements.
-- Travelers already in the United States on July 1, 2009, on a non-electronic emergency or temporary passport will not face any difficulties departing the country.
3. Please contact [redacted] CA/FO/F/P, if you have further questions.
Immigration Daily
VWP: Further Guidance and Talking Points on Ending the E-Passport Exemption for Emergency and Temporary Passports
Reference Document: STATE 058117, 06/09
TO ALL DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR POSTS
1. Summary. This cable was coordinated with DHS. Reftel A announced the end of the validity of non-electronic emergency and temporary passports for travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Paragraph 2 gives talking points regarding VWP-compliant passport requirements for use with host governments. The Department will forward via email a copy of the CBP information sheet for travelers to all VWP posts and any other posts that request them. End Summary.
2. Talking Points for use with Host Governments of pre-2008 VWP countries (NOTE: Nationals of countries admitted to the VWP in 2008 have been required since their admission to travel on e-passports, regardless of the passport type - regular, emergency, or temporary):
-- The various laws governing the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) require that travel to the United States under the VWP must be with an electronic passport (e-passport) if that passport was issued on/after October 26, 2006.
-- The law does not provide an exception for temporary and emergency passports. Therefore, effective July 1, 2009, all emergency or temporary passports must be e-Passports to be eligible for travel to the United States, including transit through the United States, under the VWP.
-- The USG does not wish to inhibit legitimate emergency travel for those who are not able to acquire an e-passport before their travel.
-- Travelers who must travel on non-electronic emergency or temporary passports should make every attempt to obtain a U.S. Visa. U.S. Embassies and Consulates will accommodate emergency visa applications to the extent possible.
-- Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at U.S. ports of entry have the authority to grant discretionary waivers of the e-passport requirement to those VWP travelers who are determined to be otherwise admissible and who truly are traveling in emergency circumstances or are legitimately unable to obtain an electronic passport or a U.S. visa.
-- CBP also intends to exercise discretion with respect to any fines levied on air carriers for boarding travelers with non-electronic emergency or temporary passports. Guidance to this effect has already been sent to the air carriers by CBP.
-- Emergency or temporary passports that are e-passports will not be affected.
-- Any passport -- emergency, temporary, or regular -- issued before October 26, 2006, by a country that had joined the VWP before 2008 must meet the VWP passport requirements in place at the time the passport was issued. Those requirements are not affected by this change. See travel.state.gov or www.cbp.gov for the requirements.
-- Travelers already in the United States on July 1, 2009, on a non-electronic emergency or temporary passport will not face any difficulties departing the country.
3. Please contact [redacted] CA/FO/F/P, if you have further questions.
WP - Researchers: Social Security Numbers Can Be Guessed
From my archive of press clippings:
Washington Post
Researchers: Social Security Numbers Can Be Guessed
By Brian Krebs
Washington Post Staff Writer Monday, July 6, 2009; 6:05 PM
Researchers have found that it is possible to guess many -- if not all -- of the nine digits in an individual's Social Security number using publicly available information, a finding they say compromises the security of one of the most widely used consumer identifiers in the United States.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"The results come as concern grows over identity theft and lawmakers in Washington push legislation that would bar businesses from requiring people to supply their Social Security number when purchasing a good or service."
"A Social Security Administration spokesman said the government has long cautioned the private sector against using a Social Security number as a personal identifier, even as it insists "there is no fool proof method for predicting a person's Social Security Number.""
&
"Introduced in the 1930s as a way to track individuals for taxation purposes, Social Security numbers were never designed to be used for authentication. Over time, however, private and public institutions began keeping tabs on consumers using the numbers, requiring people to present them as proof of identity, such as when applying for loans, new employment, or health insurance."
Washington Post
Researchers: Social Security Numbers Can Be Guessed
By Brian Krebs
Washington Post Staff Writer Monday, July 6, 2009; 6:05 PM
Researchers have found that it is possible to guess many -- if not all -- of the nine digits in an individual's Social Security number using publicly available information, a finding they say compromises the security of one of the most widely used consumer identifiers in the United States.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"The results come as concern grows over identity theft and lawmakers in Washington push legislation that would bar businesses from requiring people to supply their Social Security number when purchasing a good or service."
"A Social Security Administration spokesman said the government has long cautioned the private sector against using a Social Security number as a personal identifier, even as it insists "there is no fool proof method for predicting a person's Social Security Number.""
&
"Introduced in the 1930s as a way to track individuals for taxation purposes, Social Security numbers were never designed to be used for authentication. Over time, however, private and public institutions began keeping tabs on consumers using the numbers, requiring people to present them as proof of identity, such as when applying for loans, new employment, or health insurance."
E.C - H1N1: Traveling with your health in mind
From my archive of press clippings:
Examiner.Com
H1N1: Traveling with your health in mind
June 23, 7:29 PM
Milwaukee International Travel Examiner
Kimberly Anderson
As of May 15, the U.S. Department of State lifted the recommendation to avoid nonessential travel to Mexico (www.travel.state.gov/travel/ is_pa_tw/pa/ pa_3028.html). However, the peculiar strain of influenza which combines genes from the swine, bird, and human flu strains should be taken into account especially if you have plans to travel to Mexico or Canada.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"If you are planning to travel to a high-risk area, the U.S. Department of State recommends precaution above all else. If you are at a higher risk to catch H1N1 you should see your doctor prior to your trip in order to discuss your plans. In addition, make sure you are up-to-date on all your vaccinations - www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/schedules/default.htm provides links to child, adolescent and adult vaccinations. Also be sure to find out whether or not your insurance covers treatment during your trip, and if does not, consider purchasing extra coverage in the event that you will require medical care during your visit."
&
"(I)f you become ill, seek medical aid. A U.S. consular officer will be able to help you locate treatment centers (call 1-888-407-4747 if you are in Canada or 00-1-202-501-4444 if you are elsewhere)."
_____
For more info: www.travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1215.html, www.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list.aspx
Examiner.Com
H1N1: Traveling with your health in mind
June 23, 7:29 PM
Milwaukee International Travel Examiner
Kimberly Anderson
As of May 15, the U.S. Department of State lifted the recommendation to avoid nonessential travel to Mexico (www.travel.state.gov/travel/ is_pa_tw/pa/ pa_3028.html). However, the peculiar strain of influenza which combines genes from the swine, bird, and human flu strains should be taken into account especially if you have plans to travel to Mexico or Canada.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"If you are planning to travel to a high-risk area, the U.S. Department of State recommends precaution above all else. If you are at a higher risk to catch H1N1 you should see your doctor prior to your trip in order to discuss your plans. In addition, make sure you are up-to-date on all your vaccinations - www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/schedules/default.htm provides links to child, adolescent and adult vaccinations. Also be sure to find out whether or not your insurance covers treatment during your trip, and if does not, consider purchasing extra coverage in the event that you will require medical care during your visit."
&
"(I)f you become ill, seek medical aid. A U.S. consular officer will be able to help you locate treatment centers (call 1-888-407-4747 if you are in Canada or 00-1-202-501-4444 if you are elsewhere)."
_____
For more info: www.travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1215.html, www.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list.aspx
S&S - Task force seizes pirate ‘mother ship’
From my archive of press clippings:
Stars and Stripes
Task force seizes pirate ‘mother ship’
By Sandra Jontz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Friday, May 15, 2009
Photo by Eric L. Beauregard/ Courtesy U.S. Navy
Members of a USS Gettysburg visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team, along with U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment 409, approach a suspected pirate mothership after responding to a merchant vessel's distress signal in the Gulf of Aden.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"A January agreement between the U.S. State Department and the Kenyan government lets U.S. military and coalition nations capture suspected pirates and turn them over to Kenya for prosecution.
The Somali pirates’ use of mother ships, usually loaded with ammunition, fuel and food, let pirates operate further out to sea to attack ships transiting the heavily used shipping routes."
Stars and Stripes
Task force seizes pirate ‘mother ship’
By Sandra Jontz, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Friday, May 15, 2009
Photo by Eric L. Beauregard/ Courtesy U.S. Navy
Members of a USS Gettysburg visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team, along with U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment 409, approach a suspected pirate mothership after responding to a merchant vessel's distress signal in the Gulf of Aden.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"A January agreement between the U.S. State Department and the Kenyan government lets U.S. military and coalition nations capture suspected pirates and turn them over to Kenya for prosecution.
The Somali pirates’ use of mother ships, usually loaded with ammunition, fuel and food, let pirates operate further out to sea to attack ships transiting the heavily used shipping routes."
PBN - Hawaii demand falls for H-1B visas. Even with jobless rate up, some Hawaii firms still seeking foreign expertise.
From my archive of press clippings:
Pacific Business News
Hawaii demand falls for H-1B visas. Even with jobless rate up, some Hawaii firms still seeking foreign expertise.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Pacific Business News (Honolulu) - by Linda Chiem Pacific Business News
Hawaii employers are seeking out fewer foreign workers with the recession cooling demand for the once highly prized H-1B temporary work visa.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"With layoffs and cutbacks across all industries, the flood of work-visa applications last seen in 2006 has slowed dramatically, in Hawaii and across the Mainland.
Hawaii employers filed 627 H-1B applications in fiscal 2008, according to statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Foreign Labor Certification.
It is a 15 percent decrease from the 737 applications filed in Hawaii in 2007 and half of the 1,253 applications filed in 2006, which was considered a record year."
Pacific Business News
Hawaii demand falls for H-1B visas. Even with jobless rate up, some Hawaii firms still seeking foreign expertise.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Pacific Business News (Honolulu) - by Linda Chiem Pacific Business News
Hawaii employers are seeking out fewer foreign workers with the recession cooling demand for the once highly prized H-1B temporary work visa.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"With layoffs and cutbacks across all industries, the flood of work-visa applications last seen in 2006 has slowed dramatically, in Hawaii and across the Mainland.
Hawaii employers filed 627 H-1B applications in fiscal 2008, according to statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Foreign Labor Certification.
It is a 15 percent decrease from the 737 applications filed in Hawaii in 2007 and half of the 1,253 applications filed in 2006, which was considered a record year."
Saturday, September 5, 2009
BP - Injured woman coming home from Kenya
From my archive of press clippings:
Bristol Press
Injured woman coming home from Kenya
Monday, August 3, 2009 10:50 PM EDT
By DIANE CHURCH
STAFF WRITER
BRISTOL — With some help from a U.S. senator and two congressman, Dawn Cole, the Bristol resident who has been in a Kenyan hospital since she was injured in a May 15 car accident, is finally coming home.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"The family has been battling to get the injured woman home since the accident.
Letters from the offices of U.S. Sen. Chris Dodd, D-Conn., and U.S. Reps. John Larson, D-1st District, and Chris Murphy, D-5th District, helped persuade the U.S. State Department to finally give her a Repatriation Loan so she could come home via a med-evac jet, a trip which could cost more than $140,000. Cole could not ride in a commercial aircraft because of her injuries."
"Cole still owes the Kenyan hospital $70,000 in medical bills and the flight home will cost between $140,000 and $180,000, her brother said
Her said he has already started the process of signing his sister up for Social Security disability."
"`The United States government will not pay the expenses of a citizen injured abroad, or for their return, but the State Department will help make travel arrangements."
"Just four days before her scheduled return, she was in a car crash, which paralyzed her. A medi-vac aircraft flew her to Kenya and her family began getting bills.
Most of the money she earned is missing, her brother said. What he could find was sent to the hospital."
&
"Dawn did not have travelers’ insurance and, since her assignment with KBR was up, she wasn’t insured through them. Doctors and officials said she would do better if she were home in the United States. A relative who visited Dawn in Kenya told Brier Cole that the hospital was not up to American standards of care and sanitation."
Bristol Press
Injured woman coming home from Kenya
Monday, August 3, 2009 10:50 PM EDT
By DIANE CHURCH
STAFF WRITER
BRISTOL — With some help from a U.S. senator and two congressman, Dawn Cole, the Bristol resident who has been in a Kenyan hospital since she was injured in a May 15 car accident, is finally coming home.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"The family has been battling to get the injured woman home since the accident.
Letters from the offices of U.S. Sen. Chris Dodd, D-Conn., and U.S. Reps. John Larson, D-1st District, and Chris Murphy, D-5th District, helped persuade the U.S. State Department to finally give her a Repatriation Loan so she could come home via a med-evac jet, a trip which could cost more than $140,000. Cole could not ride in a commercial aircraft because of her injuries."
"Cole still owes the Kenyan hospital $70,000 in medical bills and the flight home will cost between $140,000 and $180,000, her brother said
Her said he has already started the process of signing his sister up for Social Security disability."
"`The United States government will not pay the expenses of a citizen injured abroad, or for their return, but the State Department will help make travel arrangements."
"Just four days before her scheduled return, she was in a car crash, which paralyzed her. A medi-vac aircraft flew her to Kenya and her family began getting bills.
Most of the money she earned is missing, her brother said. What he could find was sent to the hospital."
&
"Dawn did not have travelers’ insurance and, since her assignment with KBR was up, she wasn’t insured through them. Doctors and officials said she would do better if she were home in the United States. A relative who visited Dawn in Kenya told Brier Cole that the hospital was not up to American standards of care and sanitation."
TSLT - Suit accuses woman of immigration scam. Justice > Legal assistant allegedly posed as an lawyer.
From my archive of press clippings:
The Salt Lake Tribune
Suit accuses woman of immigration scam. Justice > Legal assistant allegedly posed as an lawyer.
Justice » Legal assistant allegedly posed as an lawyer.
By Pamela Manson
The Salt Lake Tribune
Updated: 07/06/2009 06:41:16 PM MDT
The Utah State Bar has filed a lawsuit against a legal assistant who allegedly posed as a lawyer while taking money from undocumented workers who were seeking to become legal residents of the United States.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"Leticia Avila, who worked for a Sandy law firm, used her religious connections and purported contacts with immigration authorities to convince undocumented people to pay $4,000 retainers to obtain approval of visa and citizenship applications that never came through, according to the Utah State Bar."
The Salt Lake Tribune
Suit accuses woman of immigration scam. Justice > Legal assistant allegedly posed as an lawyer.
Justice » Legal assistant allegedly posed as an lawyer.
By Pamela Manson
The Salt Lake Tribune
Updated: 07/06/2009 06:41:16 PM MDT
The Utah State Bar has filed a lawsuit against a legal assistant who allegedly posed as a lawyer while taking money from undocumented workers who were seeking to become legal residents of the United States.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"Leticia Avila, who worked for a Sandy law firm, used her religious connections and purported contacts with immigration authorities to convince undocumented people to pay $4,000 retainers to obtain approval of visa and citizenship applications that never came through, according to the Utah State Bar."
S-CM - Need to Know Advice Before and During Your Visit to America
From my archive of press clippings:
Sys-Con Media
Need to Know Advice Before and During Your Visit to America - New Visa Process for Australian and New Zealand Passport Holders
By PR Newswire
June 22, 2009 05:30 PM EDT
LONDON, June 22 /PRNewswire/ -- With the holiday season upon us, Cheapflights.com.au, the Australian site of the international travel online price comparison company, suggests that before visiting the USA it pays to check that you know the new visa rules before flying. Cheapflights also has some useful tips to help smooth your transit through domestic US airports once you are there.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"Under the United States Visa Waiver Program (VWP), Australian and New Zealand citizens entering the US by air or sea have to apply online for the new American Department of Homeland Security's mandatory Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) - this is instead of a paper visa and allows you to stay for up to three months. However, if you want to stay longer, you will still need a Tourist B2 paper visa."
"The ESTA can be obtained by making an online application right up to your flight time but preferably no later than 72 hours before departure. Cheapflights suggest doing it much earlier as an ESTA is valid for two years and it's free! NB: You must have a machine-readable passport that has a digital photograph printed on the data page or integrated chip with information from the data page."
&
"If you are traveling to the US from Australia and do not hold a passport from a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country, you will need to apply for a paper Tourist Visa B2, which can take a while. Check with your local US Embassy's website for how to apply - you will have to request an appointment for a visa interview because walk-in interviews are not given. The http://www.usembassy.gov/ site provides details of US Embassies around the world."
Sys-Con Media
Need to Know Advice Before and During Your Visit to America - New Visa Process for Australian and New Zealand Passport Holders
By PR Newswire
June 22, 2009 05:30 PM EDT
LONDON, June 22 /PRNewswire/ -- With the holiday season upon us, Cheapflights.com.au, the Australian site of the international travel online price comparison company, suggests that before visiting the USA it pays to check that you know the new visa rules before flying. Cheapflights also has some useful tips to help smooth your transit through domestic US airports once you are there.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"Under the United States Visa Waiver Program (VWP), Australian and New Zealand citizens entering the US by air or sea have to apply online for the new American Department of Homeland Security's mandatory Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) - this is instead of a paper visa and allows you to stay for up to three months. However, if you want to stay longer, you will still need a Tourist B2 paper visa."
"The ESTA can be obtained by making an online application right up to your flight time but preferably no later than 72 hours before departure. Cheapflights suggest doing it much earlier as an ESTA is valid for two years and it's free! NB: You must have a machine-readable passport that has a digital photograph printed on the data page or integrated chip with information from the data page."
&
"If you are traveling to the US from Australia and do not hold a passport from a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country, you will need to apply for a paper Tourist Visa B2, which can take a while. Check with your local US Embassy's website for how to apply - you will have to request an appointment for a visa interview because walk-in interviews are not given. The http://www.usembassy.gov/ site provides details of US Embassies around the world."
DCS - Durham Couple Who Wanted To Adopt On Trial In Egypt
From my archive of press clippings:
Durham County Story
Durham Couple Who Wanted To Adopt On Trial In Egypt
By AP, MyNC, 2 weeks, 3 days ago
Updated: May. 14 4:39 am
CAIRO
A North Carolina couple, Iris Botros and Louis Andros, thought they were finally reaching their dream of having a child when they came to Botros' homeland, Egypt, to adopt twin orphans. Instead they found themselves in a cage in a courtroom, on trial for alleged child trafficking.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"Botros and Andros, who live in Durham, N.C., also may have been caught up in an attempt by the Egyptian government to show it is cracking down on human trafficking after criticism from the United States."
"(T)he two traveled to Cairo in the fall and were put in touch with a Coptic Christian orphanage that was caring for two newborn orphans.
The orphanage gave them forged documents to say Botros had given birth to the children, and the couple donated $4,600 to the orphanage, Saleh said. In November, Botros and Andros brought the twins, whom they named Victoria and Alexander, back to their temporary home in a mostly Christian neighborhood of Cairo.
But when they tried to get American passports for the babies, a U.S. Embassy employee became suspicious of them, Saleh said. When asked by an embassy official, Botros admitted she wasn't the biological mother, the lawyer said."
"A second couple - Suzan Hagoulf, an American of Egyptian origin, and her Egyptian husband Medhat Metyas, who have been living in Egypt since 2003 - were also arrested in December.Hagoulf and Metyas adopted a newborn from the same orphanage almost a year ago, according to their lawyer, Naguib Gibrail. When they wanted to visit the U.S. in late 2008, they applied at the U.S. Embassy, where officials asked for a DNA test on the child. The couple were reluctant to present one, and the embassy notified Egyptian police, Gibrail said."
&
"The U.S. Embassy in Cairo would not comment on the case. According to the State Department, few Egyptian children are adopted by American citizens. In fiscal year 2008, the U.S. issued two Egyptian orphans immigrant visas, which must be obtained for internationally adopted children to enter the United States, according U.S. government figures."
Durham County Story
Durham Couple Who Wanted To Adopt On Trial In Egypt
By AP, MyNC, 2 weeks, 3 days ago
Updated: May. 14 4:39 am
CAIRO
A North Carolina couple, Iris Botros and Louis Andros, thought they were finally reaching their dream of having a child when they came to Botros' homeland, Egypt, to adopt twin orphans. Instead they found themselves in a cage in a courtroom, on trial for alleged child trafficking.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"Botros and Andros, who live in Durham, N.C., also may have been caught up in an attempt by the Egyptian government to show it is cracking down on human trafficking after criticism from the United States."
"(T)he two traveled to Cairo in the fall and were put in touch with a Coptic Christian orphanage that was caring for two newborn orphans.
The orphanage gave them forged documents to say Botros had given birth to the children, and the couple donated $4,600 to the orphanage, Saleh said. In November, Botros and Andros brought the twins, whom they named Victoria and Alexander, back to their temporary home in a mostly Christian neighborhood of Cairo.
But when they tried to get American passports for the babies, a U.S. Embassy employee became suspicious of them, Saleh said. When asked by an embassy official, Botros admitted she wasn't the biological mother, the lawyer said."
"A second couple - Suzan Hagoulf, an American of Egyptian origin, and her Egyptian husband Medhat Metyas, who have been living in Egypt since 2003 - were also arrested in December.Hagoulf and Metyas adopted a newborn from the same orphanage almost a year ago, according to their lawyer, Naguib Gibrail. When they wanted to visit the U.S. in late 2008, they applied at the U.S. Embassy, where officials asked for a DNA test on the child. The couple were reluctant to present one, and the embassy notified Egyptian police, Gibrail said."
&
"The U.S. Embassy in Cairo would not comment on the case. According to the State Department, few Egyptian children are adopted by American citizens. In fiscal year 2008, the U.S. issued two Egyptian orphans immigrant visas, which must be obtained for internationally adopted children to enter the United States, according U.S. government figures."
S&S - Naples barracks to close early
From my archive of press clippings:
Stars and Stripes
Naples barracks to close early
By Lisa M. Novak, Stars and Stripes European edition, Friday, April 17, 2009
NAPLES, Italy — A Navy barracks building on Capodichino will close three months earlier than expected. But at least troops’ moving expenses will be paid for.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"The building, called BEQ (bachelor-enlisted quarters) 1, had been scheduled to close by the end of September. But officials, offering no explanation, said Thursday that the building will now close by June 30.
The closure means about 80 junior enlisted troops have to move off base. Officially, bachelor housing was only supposed to be provided for servicemembers E-3 or below."
Stars and Stripes
Naples barracks to close early
By Lisa M. Novak, Stars and Stripes European edition, Friday, April 17, 2009
NAPLES, Italy — A Navy barracks building on Capodichino will close three months earlier than expected. But at least troops’ moving expenses will be paid for.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"The building, called BEQ (bachelor-enlisted quarters) 1, had been scheduled to close by the end of September. But officials, offering no explanation, said Thursday that the building will now close by June 30.
The closure means about 80 junior enlisted troops have to move off base. Officially, bachelor housing was only supposed to be provided for servicemembers E-3 or below."
Friday, September 4, 2009
LAT - Hostages of the Hermit Kingdom
Los Angeles Times
Hostages of the Hermit Kingdom
Laura Ling and Euna Lee, the two American journalists released last month after being imprisoned in North Korea, tell their story -- and remind people of the story they wanted to cover.
By Laura Ling and Euna Lee
September 1, 2009 6:28 p.m.
We arrived at the frozen river separating China and North Korea at 5 o'clock on the morning of March 17. The air was crisp and still, and there was no one else in sight. As the sun appeared over the horizon, our guide stepped onto the ice. We followed him.
Read the whole article here.
Hostages of the Hermit Kingdom
Laura Ling and Euna Lee, the two American journalists released last month after being imprisoned in North Korea, tell their story -- and remind people of the story they wanted to cover.
By Laura Ling and Euna Lee
September 1, 2009 6:28 p.m.
We arrived at the frozen river separating China and North Korea at 5 o'clock on the morning of March 17. The air was crisp and still, and there was no one else in sight. As the sun appeared over the horizon, our guide stepped onto the ice. We followed him.
Read the whole article here.
JO - Handling of Honduras crisis flawed from the start
From my archive of press clippings:
Jamaica Observer
Handling of Honduras crisis flawed from the start
SIR RONALD SANDERS
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Call it Latin American "hot blood" or "Commonwealth cool", but there is definitely a marked difference between how the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Commonwealth handle conflicts in their member states.
SIR RONALD SANDERS
Both the 53-nation Commonwealth and the 34-nation OAS have had their share of coup d'états, fraudulent elections and abuse of civil and human rights. And both organisations have drawn up Declarations of Principle for their member states - infractions of which lead to penalties of some kind.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"(W)hereas in the OAS suspension of a state from membership of the organisation was the first step taken in relation to Honduras where it was claimed a coup d'état had occurred, in the Commonwealth suspension of a member state is an action of last resort, taken only after many initiatives have been exhausted.
Unlike the OAS, the Commonwealth has standing machinery designed to deal with breaches of the fundamental democratic principles to which it adheres."
&
"The OAS secretary general was given 72 hours to find a solution to the Honduran situation. He might just as well have been asked to push a huge boulder up a steep mountain. There was no way it could have been achieved given the high emotion that existed on all sides.
In giving him such a mandate, the OAS General Assembly was clearly pressed into their decision by a group of countries led by Venezuela, Argentina, Nicaragua and Bolivia (the key members of ALBA) who wanted their man, Manuel Zelaya, immediately back in the presidency, whether or not he had been removed in accordance with the Honduran Constitution and law. As an important aside, let me say in this connection that however legally correct the impeachment of Zelaya may have been, the interim regime wrong-footed itself by having the military remove him from the country."
Jamaica Observer
Handling of Honduras crisis flawed from the start
SIR RONALD SANDERS
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Call it Latin American "hot blood" or "Commonwealth cool", but there is definitely a marked difference between how the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Commonwealth handle conflicts in their member states.
SIR RONALD SANDERS
Both the 53-nation Commonwealth and the 34-nation OAS have had their share of coup d'états, fraudulent elections and abuse of civil and human rights. And both organisations have drawn up Declarations of Principle for their member states - infractions of which lead to penalties of some kind.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"(W)hereas in the OAS suspension of a state from membership of the organisation was the first step taken in relation to Honduras where it was claimed a coup d'état had occurred, in the Commonwealth suspension of a member state is an action of last resort, taken only after many initiatives have been exhausted.
Unlike the OAS, the Commonwealth has standing machinery designed to deal with breaches of the fundamental democratic principles to which it adheres."
&
"The OAS secretary general was given 72 hours to find a solution to the Honduran situation. He might just as well have been asked to push a huge boulder up a steep mountain. There was no way it could have been achieved given the high emotion that existed on all sides.
In giving him such a mandate, the OAS General Assembly was clearly pressed into their decision by a group of countries led by Venezuela, Argentina, Nicaragua and Bolivia (the key members of ALBA) who wanted their man, Manuel Zelaya, immediately back in the presidency, whether or not he had been removed in accordance with the Honduran Constitution and law. As an important aside, let me say in this connection that however legally correct the impeachment of Zelaya may have been, the interim regime wrong-footed itself by having the military remove him from the country."
_____
Responses to: ronaldsanders29@hotmail.com
Sir Ronald Sanders is a consultant and former Caribbean diplomat.
TG - America to remove HIV visa ban after Briton's protest. Campaigner persuades Washington to alter laws that forced travellers to lie on entry forms
From my archive of press clippings:
The Guardian
America to remove HIV visa ban after Briton's protest. Campaigner persuades Washington to alter laws that forced travellers to lie on entry forms.
Anushka Asthana and Sam Rogers
The Observer, Sunday 5 July 2009
A law that has in effect banned people with HIV from visiting America for two decades is to be overturned after a Briton with the virus accused the US of hypocrisy and discrimination during a major health conference.
Read the whole article here.
The Guardian
America to remove HIV visa ban after Briton's protest. Campaigner persuades Washington to alter laws that forced travellers to lie on entry forms.
Anushka Asthana and Sam Rogers
The Observer, Sunday 5 July 2009
A law that has in effect banned people with HIV from visiting America for two decades is to be overturned after a Briton with the virus accused the US of hypocrisy and discrimination during a major health conference.
Read the whole article here.
UPI - U.S., Canada see border crossing decline
From my archive of press clippings:
UPI.COM
U.S., Canada see border crossing decline
Published: June 22, 2009 at 12:50 PM
TORONTO, June 22 (UPI) -- The number of U.S. residents traveling to Canada has dropped sharply since September 2001, Statistics Canada said Monday.
Read the whole article here.
UPI.COM
U.S., Canada see border crossing decline
Published: June 22, 2009 at 12:50 PM
TORONTO, June 22 (UPI) -- The number of U.S. residents traveling to Canada has dropped sharply since September 2001, Statistics Canada said Monday.
Read the whole article here.
S&S - Children of fallen troops will be allowed to stay in stateside DOD schools
From my archive of press clippings:
Stars and Stripes
Children of fallen troops will be allowed to stay in stateside DOD schools
By Jeff Schogol, Stars and Stripes
Stars and Stripes online edition, Thursday, May 14, 2009
ARLINGTON, Va. — Children of fallen troops can continue attending Defense Department schools in the United States all the way through high school, the Department of Defense Education Activity announced Thursday evening.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"Under the old policy, children of the fallen could remain in Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools until the transition from elementary to middle school or middle school to high school, according to a DODEA news release. "
"The new policy does not affect children in Department of Defense Dependents Schools, who move back to the United States after the loss of a loved one, said DODEA spokeswoman Connie Gillette."
&
"If the spouse of a fallen servicemembers can stay overseas per the terms of a Status of Forces Agreement, his or her children can continue to attend DODDS schools tuition-free on a “space-available basis,” Miles said. "
Stars and Stripes
Children of fallen troops will be allowed to stay in stateside DOD schools
By Jeff Schogol, Stars and Stripes
Stars and Stripes online edition, Thursday, May 14, 2009
ARLINGTON, Va. — Children of fallen troops can continue attending Defense Department schools in the United States all the way through high school, the Department of Defense Education Activity announced Thursday evening.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"Under the old policy, children of the fallen could remain in Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools until the transition from elementary to middle school or middle school to high school, according to a DODEA news release. "
"The new policy does not affect children in Department of Defense Dependents Schools, who move back to the United States after the loss of a loved one, said DODEA spokeswoman Connie Gillette."
&
"If the spouse of a fallen servicemembers can stay overseas per the terms of a Status of Forces Agreement, his or her children can continue to attend DODDS schools tuition-free on a “space-available basis,” Miles said. "
TT - Finding a home: Fewer children up for adoption in China
From my archive of press clippings:
Tehran Times
Finding a home: Fewer children up for adoption in China
April 16, 2009
BEIJING, China (CNN) -- At a foster home on the outskirts of Beijing, 13 special-needs children are waiting to be adopted. Our crew walked in as they were waking up from their afternoon nap, with sleepy eyes and little yawns that quickly turned into smiles.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"The Chinese government imposed new regulations in 2007 to limit the number of international applications, putting more restrictions on prospective parents from outside China.
The rules basically say you need not apply if you are single, overweight, deformed, taking antidepressants or poor.
China has said the rules are in the best interest of the child.
After leading the world in international adoptions, adoptions in China are slowing down, though it is not clear whether there is a link to the new rules.
According to the U.S. State Department, Americans adopted 7,906 Chinese children in 2005, a number that dropped to 3,909 children in 2008."
Tehran Times
Finding a home: Fewer children up for adoption in China
April 16, 2009
BEIJING, China (CNN) -- At a foster home on the outskirts of Beijing, 13 special-needs children are waiting to be adopted. Our crew walked in as they were waking up from their afternoon nap, with sleepy eyes and little yawns that quickly turned into smiles.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"The Chinese government imposed new regulations in 2007 to limit the number of international applications, putting more restrictions on prospective parents from outside China.
The rules basically say you need not apply if you are single, overweight, deformed, taking antidepressants or poor.
China has said the rules are in the best interest of the child.
After leading the world in international adoptions, adoptions in China are slowing down, though it is not clear whether there is a link to the new rules.
According to the U.S. State Department, Americans adopted 7,906 Chinese children in 2005, a number that dropped to 3,909 children in 2008."
Thursday, September 3, 2009
re: "'Punkin' the Birthers: Priceless'"
David Weigel at the Washington Independent ("National News in Context") explained how the prank was set up.
Money quote(s):
"It’s looking more and more like the forged “Kenyan birth certificate” released by Orly Taitz on Sunday was a prank by a supporter of President Obama."
One thing which isn't explained is why there's a coin in the second photograph. Experienced (or even just well-trained) consular officers will grasp its significance immediately.
_____
Hat tip to the Good Lt. at The Jawa Report ("First, you got the jawas. See, these guys don't really like us but don't mind making a buck selling us an R2 unit or oil or whatever.").
Money quote(s):
"It’s looking more and more like the forged “Kenyan birth certificate” released by Orly Taitz on Sunday was a prank by a supporter of President Obama."
One thing which isn't explained is why there's a coin in the second photograph. Experienced (or even just well-trained) consular officers will grasp its significance immediately.
_____
Hat tip to the Good Lt. at The Jawa Report ("First, you got the jawas. See, these guys don't really like us but don't mind making a buck selling us an R2 unit or oil or whatever.").
JG - I will renounce! Hay-Webster to give up US citizenship
From my archive of press clippings:
Jamaica Gleaner
I will renounce! Hay-Webster to give up US citizenship
Published: Sunday August 2, 2009
Hay-Webster
Tyrone Reid, Sunday Gleaner Reporter
South Central St Catherine Member of Parliament (MP) Sharon Hay-Webster has decided to give up the land of her birth - the United States of America (USA).
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"Hay-Webster, an Opposition MP, has initiated the process of renouncing her US citizenship in order to remain a member of the House of Representatives.
Fifteen months ago, an unyielding Hay-Webster, with legal team in tow, was ready for a showdown with her political adversaries to prove that despite possessing a US passport, she was eligible to sit in the lower house.
But yesterday Hay-Webster hoisted the proverbial white flag. "I told my constituency executive on Friday night that I intend to renounce and the party chairman is also aware … I told them I have been in discussion with the embassy already," she told The Sunday Gleaner in solemn tones."
"Her move to relinquish her US citizenship is the latest causality in the politically charged dual citizenship maelstrom rocking Gordon House.
Already, the court has booted three MPs - Daryl Vaz, Gregory Mair and Michael Stern - from Parliament because of the constitutional breach that rendered them ineligible to sit in the lower house when they were elected in the 2007 general election."
&
"Under the Jamaican Con-stitution, non-commonwealth nationals, who have pledged allegiance to a foreign power, are disqualified to sit in the House."
tyrone.reid@gleanerjm.com
Jamaica Gleaner
I will renounce! Hay-Webster to give up US citizenship
Published: Sunday August 2, 2009
Hay-Webster
Tyrone Reid, Sunday Gleaner Reporter
South Central St Catherine Member of Parliament (MP) Sharon Hay-Webster has decided to give up the land of her birth - the United States of America (USA).
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"Hay-Webster, an Opposition MP, has initiated the process of renouncing her US citizenship in order to remain a member of the House of Representatives.
Fifteen months ago, an unyielding Hay-Webster, with legal team in tow, was ready for a showdown with her political adversaries to prove that despite possessing a US passport, she was eligible to sit in the lower house.
But yesterday Hay-Webster hoisted the proverbial white flag. "I told my constituency executive on Friday night that I intend to renounce and the party chairman is also aware … I told them I have been in discussion with the embassy already," she told The Sunday Gleaner in solemn tones."
"Her move to relinquish her US citizenship is the latest causality in the politically charged dual citizenship maelstrom rocking Gordon House.
Already, the court has booted three MPs - Daryl Vaz, Gregory Mair and Michael Stern - from Parliament because of the constitutional breach that rendered them ineligible to sit in the lower house when they were elected in the 2007 general election."
&
"Under the Jamaican Con-stitution, non-commonwealth nationals, who have pledged allegiance to a foreign power, are disqualified to sit in the House."
tyrone.reid@gleanerjm.com
FR - Headlines: Dangerous storm could hit Mexico today
Freep.Com
Headlines: Dangerous storm could hit Mexico today
Headlines: Dangerous storm could hit Mexico today
Posted: Sept. 1, 2009
Extremely dangerous Hurricane Jimena roared toward Mexico's resort-studded Baja California Peninsula on Monday, prompting emergency workers to set up shelters.
Read the whole article here.
WIBW - Trio Charged With Visa Fraud
From my archive of press clippings:
WIBW.COM
Trio Charged With Visa Fraud
Updated: 9:13 PM Jul 1, 2009
Posted: 9:07 PM Jul 1, 2009
Reporter: 13 News
Topeka (WIBW) - A Topeka couple is accused of working with a Colorado man to fraudulently get documents to stay in the U.S.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"An indictment unsealed Wednesday charges Mahesh Gangineni and his wife, Komali Donavalli, of Topeka along with Sankar Chava of Littleton, Colorado with conspiracy to fraudulantly obtain an H-1B visa."
WIBW.COM
Trio Charged With Visa Fraud
Updated: 9:13 PM Jul 1, 2009
Posted: 9:07 PM Jul 1, 2009
Reporter: 13 News
Topeka (WIBW) - A Topeka couple is accused of working with a Colorado man to fraudulently get documents to stay in the U.S.
Read the whole article here.
Snippet(s):
"An indictment unsealed Wednesday charges Mahesh Gangineni and his wife, Komali Donavalli, of Topeka along with Sankar Chava of Littleton, Colorado with conspiracy to fraudulantly obtain an H-1B visa."
WP - Safe and Sound in Cairo
From my archive of press clippings:
Washington Post
Safe and Sound in Cairo
By K.C. Summers
Special to The Washington Post Sunday, June 21, 2009
Q. My 30-year-old daughter and a woman friend are traveling to Cairo in July. Any safety concerns they should be aware of? Also, any suggestions on places to stay? She says she can get a room for $15 -- how safe is that?
Sharon Henderson, Martinsburg, W.Va.
Read the answer to this, and other questions, here.
______
Send queries by e-mail (travelqa@washpost.com)or U.S. mail (Travel Q&A, Washington Post Travel Section, 1150 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20071). Please include your name and town.
Washington Post
Safe and Sound in Cairo
By K.C. Summers
Special to The Washington Post Sunday, June 21, 2009
Q. My 30-year-old daughter and a woman friend are traveling to Cairo in July. Any safety concerns they should be aware of? Also, any suggestions on places to stay? She says she can get a room for $15 -- how safe is that?
Sharon Henderson, Martinsburg, W.Va.
Read the answer to this, and other questions, here.
______
Send queries by e-mail (travelqa@washpost.com)or U.S. mail (Travel Q&A, Washington Post Travel Section, 1150 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20071). Please include your name and town.
DNT - Waltham family starts process to adopt second child from Ethiopia
From my archive of press clippings:
Daily News Tribune
Waltham family starts process to adopt second child from Ethiopia
By Jeff Gilbride/Daily News staff
Daily News Tribune
Posted May 12, 2009 @ 12:37 AM
WALTHAM —
The Nielsens are hoping the city's diversity will provide the perfect backdrop for their growing adoptive, multi-cultural family.
Read the whole article here.
Daily News Tribune
Waltham family starts process to adopt second child from Ethiopia
By Jeff Gilbride/Daily News staff
Daily News Tribune
Posted May 12, 2009 @ 12:37 AM
WALTHAM —
The Nielsens are hoping the city's diversity will provide the perfect backdrop for their growing adoptive, multi-cultural family.
Read the whole article here.
JO - Awaiting refund from RGD
From my archive of press clippings:
Jamaica Observer
Awaiting refund from RGD
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Dear Editor,
I refer to your recent editorial on the new initiatives by the Registrar General's Department, and I wish to commend them on their efforts. However, every time I read about the RGD, I cannot help but have a very bad taste in my mouth.
Read the whole article here.
(signed)
Lisa Marie Samuels
ligro_jj@yahoo.com
Jamaica Observer
Awaiting refund from RGD
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Dear Editor,
I refer to your recent editorial on the new initiatives by the Registrar General's Department, and I wish to commend them on their efforts. However, every time I read about the RGD, I cannot help but have a very bad taste in my mouth.
Read the whole article here.
(signed)
Lisa Marie Samuels
ligro_jj@yahoo.com
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
re: "Grave Responsibilities Taken Lightly"
Madam le Consul at The Consul's Files ("ask questions, answer questions, question answers, express frustrations, engage in debate, disagree, and tell their favorite consular stories, uncensored and anonymous") affirmed probably the most crucial role of front-line consular managers (Those studs. And studettes).
Money quote(s):
"More than anyone else in the mission, the consular section chief is responsible for raising up the next generation of FSOs, giving them a good, strong, broad, confident start in their new profession."
"What is a consular section chief's ultimate goal with the ELOs? It is to train them so well that if the chief is run over by a milk truck tomorrow, the section will barely hiccup. If we haven't taught them everything we know, we have failed.
What is a consular section chief's penultimate goal with ELOs? It is to teach them the most basic requirements of their careers: do hard work well; do it with class and style; do it with kindness and generosity; do it with the biggest possible picture in mind. We don't do our work for gratitude; we do it because it's our work. We don't bring our personal baggage to the work station. We are on a par with every other officer in the mission, and will be treated with and will behave with perfect professionalism and respect."
&
"What if they aren't consular coned and will never do another consular tour? Why bother to teach them so much? Because some day they will be doing visa referrals, they will be principal officers, they will be DCMs. It will strongly behoove us to assure that they know a great deal about and have great respect for consular work, if for no other reason than to spare the next generation of consular managers excessive heartburn."
Money quote(s):
"More than anyone else in the mission, the consular section chief is responsible for raising up the next generation of FSOs, giving them a good, strong, broad, confident start in their new profession."
"What is a consular section chief's ultimate goal with the ELOs? It is to train them so well that if the chief is run over by a milk truck tomorrow, the section will barely hiccup. If we haven't taught them everything we know, we have failed.
What is a consular section chief's penultimate goal with ELOs? It is to teach them the most basic requirements of their careers: do hard work well; do it with class and style; do it with kindness and generosity; do it with the biggest possible picture in mind. We don't do our work for gratitude; we do it because it's our work. We don't bring our personal baggage to the work station. We are on a par with every other officer in the mission, and will be treated with and will behave with perfect professionalism and respect."
&
"What if they aren't consular coned and will never do another consular tour? Why bother to teach them so much? Because some day they will be doing visa referrals, they will be principal officers, they will be DCMs. It will strongly behoove us to assure that they know a great deal about and have great respect for consular work, if for no other reason than to spare the next generation of consular managers excessive heartburn."
re: "This Week’s North American Summit"
DRJ guest-posted at Patterico's Pontifications ("Harangues that Just Make Sense") and shared a surprise.
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