South Carolina House 1st Congressional District Special Election
March 19th, 2013
A special election in South Carolina 1st Congressional District for a replacement for
.
VOTE SMART & VOTE DEMOCRAT 2013
.
*** 2013 S. Carolina 1st District Primaries Results ***
March 20, 2013
District Results
1st District - 99.1%
Democrat Winner ====> Elizabeth Colbert Busch Dem 95.9% of the votes
.***
Monday , March 18, 2013
All Times Eastern
7:00 AM
Vice President Biden meets with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano at the Palazzo del Quirinale, Italy
8:00 AM
8:15 AM
Vice President Biden meets with Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti at Palazzo Chigi, Italy
9:00 AM
10:00 AM
10:15 AM
President Obama receives the presidential daily briefing
10:40 AM
Vice President Biden meets with President Bronislaw Komorowski of Poland at Villa Aurelia, Italy
11:00 AM
President Obama meets with senior advisers
11:30 AM
President Obama nominates Assistant Attorney General Tom Perez as U.S. Labor Secretary.
12:00 PM
Vice President Biden meets with President Tomislav Nikolic of Serbia at Villa Aurelia, Italy
1:00 PM
1:30 PM
White House Secretary Jay Carney briefs the press
2:00 PM
3:00 PM
4:00 PM
4:40 PM
President Obama delivers remarks at a Women’s History Month Reception
5:00 PM
6:00 PM
7:00 PM
8:00 PM
9:00 PM
10:00 PM
Vice President Biden arrives in Washington, DC
March 18, 2013
WhiteHouse.gov http://www.whitehouse.gov/live
1:30 PM ET
White House Secretary Jay Carney briefs the press
11:30 AM ET
President Obama nominates Assistant Attorney General Tom Perez as U.S. Labor Secretary.
2:30 PM ET
Women’s History Month: A Panel of Remarkable Women
The White House
4:40 PM ET
President Obama delivers remarks at a Women’s History Month Reception
—-
ABC News http://abcnews.go.com/Live/
11:30 AM ET
President Obama nominates Assistant Attorney General Tom Perez as U.S. Labor Secretary.
1:30 PM ET
White House Secretary Jay Carney briefs the press
4:40 PM ET
President Obama delivers remarks at a Women’s History Month Reception
—-
CSPAN http://www.cspan.org/
10:00 AM ET
LGBT Health Advocates Examine Afforable Care Act
The Center for American Progress holds a roundtable discussion http://www.c-spanvideo.org/program/311574-1
11:30 AM ET
President Obama nominates Assistant Attorney General Tom Perez as U.S. Labor Secretary. http://www.c-spanvideo.org/program/311579-1
12:00 PM ET
Experts Examine Pres. Obama’s Middle East Trip
A panel of experts break down President Obama’s upcoming visit — the first foreign travel of his second term — to Israel, Jordan, and the West Bank during a policy forum at The Washington Institute. http://www.c-spanvideo.org/event/215854
12:30 PM ET
Center for Strategic and International Studies
Future of the Persian Gulf
Martin Dempsey http://www.c-spanvideo.org/event/215815
12:30 PM ET
Sen. Carl Levin Outlines Defense Priorities
The Council on Foreign Relations holds a conversation http://www.c-spanvideo.org/event/215850
1:30 PM ET
White House Secretary Jay Carney briefs the press
2:00 PM ET
U.S. Senate: Continued Government Funding Past March 27th
3:00 PM ET
Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Former Ambassador on Afghanistan and Pakistan
Marc Grossman; Jessica Mathews http://www.c-spanvideo.org/event/215851
5:30 PM ET
U.S. Senate: Votes on Amendments to the Continuing Resolution
South Carolina House 1st Congressional District Special Primary Election
Tuesday 19 March 2013
A special election in South Carolina – Special Election House CD 1 for a replacement for James W. “Jim” DeMint
SCDP.org
TUESDAY, MARCH 19, 2013
1st Congressional District Special Election Primary
Description:
The South Carolina Democratic Party has had two candidates file for the 1st Congressional District Special Election:
Note: Martin Skelly has ended his campaign for Congress and endorsed Elizabeth Colbert-Busch.
March 15, 2013
Vice President Biden to Lead Presidential Delegation to Attend the Mass for the Inauguration of the Pontificate of His Holiness Pope Francis
President Barack Obama today announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to attend the Inauguration Mass celebrating the Pontificate of His Holiness Pope Francis, which will take place on March 19, 2013.
The Honorable Joseph R. Biden Jr., Vice President of the United States, will lead the delegation.
Members of the Presidential Delegation:
The Honorable Susana Martinez, Governor of the State of New Mexico
The Honorable Nancy Pelosi, Democratic Leader of the United States House of Representatives and United States Representative from California
Dr. John J. DeGioia, President, Georgetown University
March 13, 2013
Statement from the President on His Holiness Pope Francis
On behalf of the American people, Michelle and I offer our warm wishes to His Holiness Pope Francis as he ascends to the Chair of Saint Peter and begins his papacy. As a champion of the poor and the most vulnerable among us, he carries forth the message of love and compassion that has inspired the world for more than two thousand years—that in each other we see the face of God. As the first pope from the Americas, his selection also speaks to the strength and vitality of a region that is increasingly shaping our world, and alongside millions of Hispanic Americans, those of us in the United States share the joy of this historic day. Just as I appreciated our work with Pope Benedict XVI, I look forward to working with His Holiness to advance peace, security and dignity for our fellow human beings, regardless of their faith. We join with people around the world in offering our prayers for the Holy Father as he begins the sacred work of leading the Catholic Church in our modern world.
March 13, 2013
Statement from the Vice President on His Holiness Pope Francis
Jill and I want to offer our congratulations to His Holiness Pope Francis, and extend our prayers as he takes on this holy responsibility. I am happy to have the chance to personally relay my well wishes, and those of the American people, when I travel to Rome for his Inaugural Mass. The Catholic Church plays an essential role in my life and the lives of more than a billion people in America and around the world, not just in matters of our faith, but in pursuit of peace and human dignity for all faiths. I look forward to our work together in the coming years on many important issues.
House Price Gains Signal U.S. Rental Bonanza Ending
Mar 18, 2013 4:35 AM PT By John Gittelsohn & Prashant Gopal – bloomberg
Rents for single-family homes are rising slower than property prices as firms such as Blackstone Group LP (BX) flood the market with homes for lease, posing risks to investors betting billions on the burgeoning market.
Monthly payments for properties in Phoenix rose 1.3 percent in February from a year earlier, compared with a 25 percent jump in for-sale asking prices, according to Trulia Inc. (TRLA), which operates an online listing service. In Atlanta, asking prices climbed 14 percent as single family rents gained 0.5 percent, and in Las Vegas (SPCSLV) rents dropped 1.7 percent even as asking prices soared 18 percent.
While private-equity firms are helping real estate values recover from the worst slump since the 1930s by cutting the supply of foreclosures for sale, they’re also crowding the market with rentals. Leases for U.S. apartments rose 3.9 percent in February from a year earlier, more than quadruple the 0.9 percent increase for single-family homes, Trulia said.
“Investors are buying homes, in part, to rent them out, and that has added a lot of rental supply, and that’s preventing rents from rising,” Jed Kolko, San Francisco-based Trulia’s chief economist, said in a telephone interview. “It means some investors will start to think about selling those single-family rentals.”
For more: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-03-18/rent-gains-trail-as-blackstone-crowds-u-s-with-homes.html
7:00 AM ET
Vice President Biden meets with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano
Palazzo del Quirinale, Italy
8:15 AM ET
Vice President Biden meets with Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti
Palazzo Chigi, Italy
10:40 AM ET
Vice President Biden meets with President Bronislaw Komorowski of Poland at Villa Aurelia, Italy
Next Up…
11:30 AM ET
President Obama nominates Assistant Attorney General Tom Perez as U.S. Labor Secretary.
WhiteHouse.gov http://www.whitehouse.gov/live
ABC News http://abcnews.go.com/Live/
CSPAN http://www.c-spanvideo.org/program/311579-1
March 18, 2013
Remarks by the President Announcing the Nomination of Thomas Perez for Secretary of Labor
East Room
11:47 A.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. (Applause.) Everybody have a seat. Have a seat. As I’ve said before, my top priority as President is doing everything we need to do to make sure that we’re growing our economy and that we’re strengthening our middle class. And as I said in my State of the Union address last month, every day we should be asking ourselves three questions. One — how do we make sure America is a magnet for good jobs? Number two — how do we equip people with the skills they need to get those jobs? And number three — how do we make sure that hard work actually pays off in a decent living?
These are the challenges that I’ve instructed my team here at the White House and in my entire Cabinet to focus on. And a position that’s instrumental to tackling these challenges is having an outstanding Secretary of Labor.
So I want to begin by thanking Hilda Solis and her entire team — (applause) — including Acting Secretary Seth Harris — (applause) — for the outstanding work that they’ve been doing over the past four years. Their efforts at the Department of Labor have given more young people a chance to earn new skills, more returning vets the chance to find a job. They’ve looked out for worker safety from construction sites to coal mines. They’ve stood up for workers’ rights to organize, women’s rights to get paid equally for the work that they do. They’ve done an extraordinary job fighting on behalf of working families across the board.
And today, I’m proud to nominate a leader to carry on those efforts as America’s next Secretary of Labor — Tom Perez. (Applause.)
Like so many Americans, Tom knows what it’s like to climb the ladder of opportunity. He is the son of Dominican immigrants. He helped pay his way through college as a garbage collector and working at a warehouse. He went on to become the first lawyer in his family. So his story reminds us of this country’s promise, that if you’re willing to work hard, it doesn’t matter who you are, where you come from, what your last name is — you can make it if you try.
And Tom has made protecting that promise — for everybody — the cause of his life. As a civil rights attorney, an aide to Senator Ted Kennedy, a member of the Montgomery, Maryland County Council, Tom fought for a level playing field where hard work and responsibility are rewarded and working families can get ahead.
For more: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/03/18/remarks-president-announcing-nomination-thomas-perez-secretary-labor
FL-CIO praises Perez pick
3/18/13 12:12 PM EDT By DONOVAN SLACK – POLITICO44
The AFL-CIO on Monday applauded President Obama’s pick to lead the Labor Department, saying Tom Perez will be a strong advocate for working people.
“Throughout his career, Perez has fought to level the playing field and create opportunities for working people, whether in the workplace, the marketplace or the voting booth,” AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said in a statement.
“At a time when our politics tilts so heavily toward corporations and the very wealthy, our country needs leaders like Tom Perez to champion the cause of ordinary working people. And working families need and deserve a strong advocate as their Secretary of Labor — one who will vigorously enforce job safety standards, wage laws, and anti-discrimination rules, and who will speak out forcefully for working families and their workplace rights, including their right to join together to improve their lives and working conditions.
“President Obama has chosen such an advocate in Tom Perez, and we congratulate him on this nomination.”
12:00 PM ET
Vice President Biden meets with President Tomislav Nikolic of Serbia
Villa Aurelia, Italy
Please join me in lighting a candle for our President, First Family and the Nation.
http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=PBO
2:30 PM ET
Women’s History Month: A Panel of Remarkable Women
The White House
WhiteHouse.gov http://www.whitehouse.gov/live
Women’s History Month: A Panel of Remarkable Women
Published on Mar 19, 2013
Valerie Jarrett, Senior Advisor to the President and Chair of the Council on Women and Girls, introduces a panel featuring women from a range of fields and backgrounds discussing their career paths, role models and advice for young people. March 18, 2013.
Next Up…
4:40 PM ET
President Obama delivers remarks at a Women’s History Month Reception
WhiteHouse.gov http://www.whitehouse.gov/live
ABC News http://abcnews.go.com/Live/
President Obama Speaks at a Women’s History Month Reception
Published on Mar 18, 2013
President Obama delivers remarks at a Women’s History Month reception at the White House. March 18, 2013.
March 18, 2013
Statement from the Vice President and Dr. Jill Biden on the Nomination of Cathy Russell
Washington, D.C.—The Vice President and Dr. Jill Biden today released the following statement after President Obama announced that he plans to nominate Cathy Russell, Chief of Staff to Dr. Biden, for the position of Ambassador at Large for Global Women’s Issues at the Department of State.
“We are so grateful for all of Cathy’s hard work and can’t imagine a better choice to be our next Ambassador to work on the most pressing issues faced by women and girls around the globe. Through the more than 25 years we have known Cathy, she has made a tremendous difference in the fight to promote gender equality and advance the status of women and girls, helped raise awareness about the issues critical to military families through Joining Forces, and strengthened the role community colleges play in creating the workforce of the future. We will miss Cathy, but know that she will make a real difference in the lives of women and girls throughout the world in her new role.”
For more: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/03/18/statement-vice-president-and-dr-jill-biden-nomination-cathy-russell
Financial markets haven’t freaked out over Cyprus. That doesn’t mean we’re in the clear.
March 18, 2013 at 1:00 pm Posted by Neil Irwin – washingtonpost
First the good news: Financial markets have been relatively stable Monday, not really panicking over international authorities’ decision to force losses on those with deposits in Cyprus’s banks.
Borrowing costs for Spain and Italy have risen only about 6/100 of a percent, the German stock markets are down about 1 percent, and the value of the euro currency is down only about 0.9 percent against the dollar. Those are all signs of an adverse market reaction to the weekend’s news — but not evidence that a broader run on Europe is underway.
But the bad news is this: We learned over the weekend that European authorities still haven’t learned something fundamental, namely, that with every decision they make, economic actors across the world will extrapolate and draw conclusions about what they will do in the future and act accordingly.
The modest declines in financial markets Monday are a sign that global investors are betting that the losses being forced upon Cypriot bank deposits will be a one-off situation, and not form a precedent for future aid to banks in Greece, Spain, Portugal and beyond. There is indeed plenty that is unique about Cyprus compared to other Eurozone countries— not just its tiny size (only 1.1 million people) and location closer to the Middle East than Western Europe — but also a high proportion of bank deposits that are Russian wealth of dubious provenance. (Already the diplomatic tension between Russia and European leaders has heated up).
For more: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2013/03/18/financial-markets-havent-freaked-out-over-cyprus-that-doesnt-mean-were-in-the-clear/
House Dem budget includes $1.2T in taxes, $200B new stimulus
3/18/13 01:50 PM ET By Erik Wasson – TheHill
House Democrats on Monday unveiled a 2014 budget proposal that includes $1.2 trillion in new taxes and $200 billion in stimulus spending.
That’s about twice the level of stimulus spending that what was in the Senate Democratic budget, which included $975 million in new taxes.
House Republicans have a budget that would lower tax rates and cut spending by $5.7 trillion compared to the Congressional Budget Office baseline.
The House Democratic budget, authored by Budget Committee Ranking Member Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), would raise $1.2 trillion in revenue over ten years by ending tax breaks for both corporations and individuals.
“We focus immediately on accelerating the economic recovery, on growing jobs rather than shrinking jobs,” Van Hollen told reporters.
The Democratic budget also includes higher guaranteed transportation spending.
Read more: http://thehill.com/blogs/on-the-money/budget/288773-house-dem-budget-has-more-taxes-stimulus-than-senate-budget
Ryan’s tax reforms cost more than all his spending cuts combined
Posted by Ezra Klein on March 18, 2013 at 4:51 pm
Here’s an amazing fact: Ryan’s tax reform plan costs more than all his spending cuts combined.
So how will he pay for his much, much lower rates? Well, he doesn’t say. In fact, he doesn’t even begin to say. His budget doesn’t name even one tax deduction, exclusion, credit, or loophole that will be closed. All he says is that he will pay for his lower rates, or at least the House Ways and Means Committee, which is in charge of writing any tax reform bill, will pay for them.
But he doesn’t say that they’ll pay for them while keeping the tax code as progressive as it is today.
Ryan’s budget is very clear in its instructions to the House Ways and Means Committee. They can only submit a tax reform bill that “simplifies the tax code to make it fairer to American families and businesses and reduces the amount of time and resources necessary to comply with tax laws,” “substantially lowers tax rates for individuals,” “repeals the alternative minimum tax,” “reduces the corporate rate to 25 percent,” “transitions the tax code to a more competitive system of international taxation,” and is “revenue-neutral”.
For more: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2013/03/18/ryans-tax-reforms-cost-more-than-all-his-spending-cuts-combined/
House conservatives’ budget balances in 4 years, raises retirement age to 70
3/18/13 02:08 PM ET By Russell Berman – TheHill
The conservative Republican Study Committee (RSC) released its budget proposal on Monday, a document that calls for eliminating the federal deficit in four years and raising the retirement age to 70.
The fiscal plan by the large conservative bloc in the House is significantly more far-reaching than the official House Republican budget authored by Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.), which balances the budget in a decade.
“What we do in this RSC budget is say, you don’t have to wait,” said Rep. Rob Woodall (R-Ga.), who wrote the conservative alternative. “We can make tougher decisions today, and we can end our economic crisis even earlier.”
The RSC budget, which Chairman Steve Scalise (R-La.) previewed on Friday, would begin Ryan’s “premium support” for Medicare five years earlier, impacting people age 59 and younger. It was gradually increase the eligibility age for Social Security and Medicare to 70, with the phase-up beginning in 2024.
The proposal would make deeper cuts to discretionary spending, capping it at $950 billion, a level not seen in more than five years. That level would be frozen until the budget balances in 2017. While defense spending would match the Ryan budget proposal, the RSC would lower non-defense spending in actual terms by $6 billion over the next decade. The official House GOP budget, by contrast, merely slows the rate of spending growth over the same period.
Read more: http://thehill.com/blogs/on-the-money/budget/288781-house-conservatives-budget-balances-in-4-years-raises-retirement-age-to-70
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
All Times Eastern
President Obama receives the presidential daily briefing
4:00 AM
4:30 AM
Vice President Biden attends the Mass for the Inauguration of the Pontificate of His Holiness Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City.
5:00 AM
6:00 AM
7:00 AM
8:00 AM
9:00 AM
10:00 AM
10:30 AM
President Obama meets with Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny.
11:00 AM
White House Secretary Jay Carney briefs the press.
11:15 AM
First Lady Michelle Obama delivers remarks to an event honoring women veterans.
11:25 AM
President Obama greets First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness of Northern Ireland
12:00 PM
President Obama and Kenny attend a St. Patrick’s Day lunch.
1:00 PM
2:00 PM
3:00 PM
4:00 PM
5:00 PM
5:45 PM
President Obama and First Lady Michelle hosts the White House St. Patrick’s Day Reception
6:00 PM
7:00 PM
7:45 PM
President Obama departs the White House en route Joint Base Andrews.
8:00 PM
President Obama departs Joint Base Andrews en route Tel Aviv, Israel.
9:00 PM
10:00 PM
March 19, 2013
WhiteHouse.gov http://www.whitehouse.gov/live
10:00 AM ET
White House Champions of Change
The White House
11:00 AM ET
White House Secretary Jay Carney briefs the press.
5:45 PM ET
President Obama and First Lady Michelle hosts the White House St. Patrick’s Day Reception
—-
ABC News http://abcnews.go.com/Live/
10:00 AM ET
Syria humanitarian crisis hearing
A Senate foreign relations subcommittee holds a hearing on the current humanitarian situation in the war-torn country of Syria.
10:00 AM ET
Airline merger hearing
A Senate judiciary subcommittee looks at the planned merger between American Airlines and US Airways and how it affects consumers and the industry.
10:00 AM ET
House Financial Services Committee
Discussion on Federal Housing Finance Agency
11:00 AM ET
White House Secretary Jay Carney briefs the press.
1:00 PM ET
House Committee Judiciary
House Judiciary Hearing on Release of Immigrants from Detention Centers
1:15 PM ET
President Obama and Kenny attend a St. Patrick’s Day “Friends of Ireland” lunch.
5:45 PM ET
President Obama and First Lady Michelle hosts the White House St. Patrick’s Day Reception
—-
CSPAN http://www.cspan.org/
10:00 AM ET
Syria humanitarian crisis hearing
A Senate foreign relations subcommittee holds a hearing on the current humanitarian situation in the war-torn country of Syria.
10:00 AM ET
Airline merger hearing
A Senate judiciary subcommittee looks at the planned merger between American Airlines and US Airways and how it affects consumers and the industry. http://www.c-spanvideo.org/program/311601-1
10:00 AM ET
Acting Director Talks Oversight of Freddie & Fannie http://www.c-spanvideo.org/event/215933
10:00 AM ET
House Financial Services Committee
Discussion on Federal Housing Finance Agency
10:00 AM ET
Lawmakers Hear from Top Scientists on ‘Space Threats’ http://www.c-spanvideo.org/event/215940
10:00 AM ET
Privacy Experts Offer Updates for Electronic Privacy Act http://www.c-spanvideo.org/event/215939
1:00 PM ET
House Committee Judiciary
House Judiciary Hearing on Release of Immigrants from Detention Centers http://www.c-spanvideo.org/event/215904
2:00 PM ET
FBI Dir. Mueller to Detail FY2014 Budget
The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science, and Related Agencies will hold a hearing on the proposed fiscal year 2014 Budget for the FBI. http://www.c-spanvideo.org/event/215942
President Obama welcomes Prime Minister (Taoiseach) Enda Kenny of Ireland to the White House. The United States and Ireland share a strong bilateral partnership, enduring people-to-people ties, and a commitment to advancing peace, security and prosperity in the world. In the morning, the President will meet with the Taoiseach in the Oval Office, and subsequently he will attend the traditional St. Patrick’s Day lunch at the U.S. Capitol. During the day, the President will also greet First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness of Northern Ireland at the White House to discuss their progress toward meeting their shared commitment to a peaceful and prosperous future for the people of Northern Ireland. In the evening, the President and the First Lady will host a reception to celebrate their fifth St. Patrick’s Day at the White House. During the reception, the President and Kenny will participate in the annual Shamrock ceremony started under President
ICSC-Goldman Store Sales
Released On 3/19/2013 7:45:00 AM For wk3/16, 2013
Prior Actual
Store Sales – W/W change 0.7 % 1.4 %
Store Sales – Y/Y 1.8 % 2.3 %
Highlights
Retail sales picked up strongly last week according to ICSC-Goldman’s same-store sales index which jumped 1.4 percent in the week. The year-on-year rate rose five tenths to plus 2.3 percent. The report cites special strength at grocery stores, apparel stores, and discounters.
Source: http://bloomberg.econoday.com/byshoweventfull.asp?fid=455505&cust=bloomberg-us&year=2013&lid=0&prev=/byweek.asp#top
Housing Starts in U.S. Climb as Building Permits Pick Up
Mar 19, 2013 5:47 AM PT By Lorraine Woellert – bloomberg
New U.S. home construction rose in February and building permits climbed to the highest level in almost five years, adding to signs of progress in the housing market that’s helping boost the economy.
Builders broke ground on 917,000 homes at an annual rate, up 0.8 percent from a revised 910,000 pace in January that was higher than initially estimated, the Commerce Department reported today in Washington. Building permits, a proxy for future construction, advanced 4.6 percent to 946,000, the strongest since June 2008.
Confidence is being restored to the housing market as property values stabilize, the employment outlook brightens and mortgage rates hover around record lows. An easing of bank lending conditions would help bring home ownership within reach of more Americans and stoke bigger gains in home construction.
“Housing continues to be a bright spot for the economy, and this is a good report,” said Anika Khan, senior economist at Wells Fargo Securities LLC in Charlotte, North Carolina, a subsidiary of the largest U.S. mortgage lender. “Permits definitely showed a big jump. As long as that is outpacing starts, we’ll likely see another positive month next month.”
Stock-index futures held gains after the figures, with the contract on the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index expiring in June climbing 0.2 percent to 1,549.8 at 8:46 a.m. in New York.
The median estimate of 81 economists surveyed by Bloomberg called for 915,000 starts. Forecasts ranged from 872,000 to 1 million. The prior month’s figure was revised from a previously reported 890,000 pace.
For more: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-03-19/housing-starts-in-u-s-climbed-0-8-in-february-to-917-000-rate.html
Wheat Crop Seen Near Record as U.S. Drought Recedes: Commodities
Mar 19, 2013 5:16 AM PT By Luzi Ann Javier – bloomberg
Farmers from Australia to Europe to the U.S. are poised to reap the second-largest wheat crop on record as fields recover from drought and heat waves, boosting global stockpiles for the first time in four years.
Output will climb 4.3 percent to 690 million metric tons, about 10 million tons short of the all-time high set two years ago, the United Nations estimates. Global inventories will increase by 2 million tons to 176 million tons, the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences predicts. Prices will probably drop 16 percent to $6 a bushel in Chicago by the end of the year, according to the median of 16 analyst and trader estimates compiled by Bloomberg.
Food supply is expanding, with the UN forecasting a record rice harvest and the U.S. government the biggest-ever corn and soybean crops. Wheat closed at $7.1275 on the Chicago Board of Trade yesterday and last traded at $6 in May, before the worst U.S. drought since the 1930s and heat waves in Europe drove prices to a four-year high in July. Snowstorms in the U.S. have since helped boost soil moisture, Joe Glauber, chief economist at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, said March 6.
“The supply situation was compromised through some very adverse weather events in the Northern Hemisphere,” said Steve Mellington, the chief executive officer of the Australian Grain Growers Cooperative, which has 350 members across three states. “Growers are now responding to those price signals with the increased area being planted this year.
For more: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-03-18/wheat-crop-seen-near-record-as-u-s-drought-recedes-commodities.html
Redbook
Released On 3/19/2013 8:55:00 AM For wk3/16, 2013
Prior Actual
Store Sales Y/Y change 2.7 % 2.9 %
Highlights
Retail sales held steady last week, at a moderate year-on-year plus 2.9 percent according to Redbook’s same-store sales tally. But Redbook’s month-to-month comparison shows particular strength, up 0.7 percent to offer an early positive indication for the government’s ex-auto ex-gas reading. Citing the month-end approach of Easter, Redbook sees strength building in the current week. The report also notes that spring break for students should be a positive for general merchandise.
Source: http://bloomberg.econoday.com/byshoweventfull.asp?fid=455562&cust=bloomberg-us&year=2013&lid=0&prev=/byweek.asp#top
Next Up..
10:00 AM ET
White House Champions of Change
The White House
WhiteHouse.gov http://www.whitehouse.gov/live
Champions of Change: Honoring Women Veterans
Published on Mar 19, 2013
Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki and First Lady Michelle Obama honor women veterans as Champions of Change. These women have not only served our country in uniform but have continued to serve as leaders in our nation’s communities, businesses, and schools. March 19, 2013.
10:30 AM ET
President Obama meets with Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny.
March 19, 2013
Remarks by President Obama and Prime Minister Kenny of Ireland Before a Bilateral Meeting
Oval Office
10:41 A.M. EDT
PRESIDENT OBAMA: Well, it is a great pleasure to welcome back Taoiseach Kenny to the Oval Office, to the White House and his entire delegation. Obviously, we cherish this opportunity once a year to reaffirm the incredible bond between the United States and Ireland. This year, it also gives us an excuse to stretch out St. Patrick’s Day for a couple of extra days, which is always good.
This is now my fifth time to welcome the Taoiseach to the Oval Office. I’ve had the occasion to visit Ireland as well — one of the truly wonderful trips that I’ve taken as President of the United States. And the reason that these meetings go so well is because of the incredible bond and history between our two countries.
Obviously, the contributions of Irish Americans to the United States is legendary. But what is also true is that we have an incredibly strong partnership on economic issues, on security issues. The Taoiseach has shown great leadership during difficult times in Ireland. And we’re seeing progress in the Irish economy. That’s good for the U.S. economy because we have a lot of trade, a lot of investment in Ireland.
There was a story this morning about a deal between Ryanair and Boeing in which we’ll be selling a whole lot of airplanes to Ireland. And it’s an example of how the progress that’s made in Ireland benefits jobs and businesses here in the United States. Obviously, the Taoiseach is very interested, as well as in continuing to attract direct investment from the United States to Ireland. So this will be a major topic of discussion.
Ireland also punches above its weight internationally when it comes to humanitarian assistance, peacekeeping. Irish troops are in many very difficult places in the world and provide the kinds of stabilization and humanitarian efforts that make all the difference and save lives.
For more: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/03/19/remarks-president-obama-and-prime-minister-kenny-ireland-bilateral-meeti
March 19, 2013
Remarks by President Obama and Prime Minister Enda Kenny of Ireland at a St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon
U.S. Capitol
Washington, D.C.
1:05 P.M. EDT
PRESIDENT OBAMA: Thank you. (Applause.) Thank you so much. Please, everybody, have a seat.
To our host, Speaker Boehner, to the distinguished members of the House and the Senate, thank you all for having me here today. Obviously, we are thrilled to have the Taoiseach back, and his lovely wife and his delegation.
But before I begin, I just want to say a few words about a tragic accident in Nevada that took the lives of seven U.S. servicemembers and wounded several others yesterday. All of us share our thoughts and prayers with their families. And I think this should serve as a reminder that even as we’re able to gather today in tradition and in friendship, it’s the extraordinary and enduring sacrifice of our men and women in uniform that make this possible, and the sacrifices that their families make as well. And all Americans stand united in grateful support of all that they do.
Now, I know I speak for everyone when I say we’re pleased to welcome Taoiseach Kenny and his wife, Fionnuala, back to Washington. They are just wonderful friends. I also want to welcome First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness from Northern Ireland. Where are Peter and Martin? There they are right here. (Applause.)
We spend the whole year trying to bring this town together, and these leaders are able to do it in a single afternoon. They even get us to dress alike. (Laughter.) So my question is how long can you stay? (Laughter.) Because we’ve got some budget discussions coming up. Perhaps you can be helpful.
Now, even though most of the debate in Congress on this day is about who is more Irish than whom, that doesn’t make it any less heated. But no matter how much green is in your family tree, remember that Speaker Boehner is part-Irish and spent much of his childhood surrounded by characters in his father’s bar, so the rest of us are probably playing for second place in this contest.
I will say that after visiting my ancestral hometown of Moneygall two years ago, I’ve now seen the official Irish records proving my Irish heritage on my mother’s side. I thought that would come in handy more often, but it turns out that on St. Patrick’s Day, people just take your word for it. (Laughter.) I’m keeping all my records. (Laughter.) Just in case. (Laughter.)
For more: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/03/19/remarks-president-obama-and-prime-minister-enda-kenny-ireland-st-patrick
11:15 AM ET
First Lady Michelle Obama delivers remarks to an event honoring women veterans.
Remarks by the First Lady at Champions of Change Women’s Veterans Event
Eisenhower Executive Office Building
Washington, D.C.
11:39 A.M. EDT
MRS. OBAMA: Hello! (Applause.) Good afternoon — morning. It’s still morning. How is everyone? You all, rest yourselves. (Laughter.) I hear we’ve been keeping you pretty busy, right?
Well, I’m really thrilled to be here. I am just delighted to have the opportunity to stop by and say hello, and to add my thanks to the many thanks. But I want to start by thanking Secretary Shinseki, not just for his kind introduction but for his stalwart service to this country. And also, when — I hear Patty is here, too. Patty — there is Patty Shinseki, who has been with you. I want to thank you for joining us today, and for all that you’ve done as a partner, with Jill and I, through Joining Forces. It’s wonderful to see you, as well as everyone here from the Business and Professional Women’s Foundation, for the exceptional work that they do every day for women’s veterans.
And, of course, I want to recognize the 14 extraordinary women we’re honoring as our Champions of Change. I had an opportunity to take some quick photos and meet Joshua over there, who is — (laughter) — he’s riveted by today’s proceedings. (Laughter.)
And I want to thank every single woman in this room who has worn our country’s uniform. And I know there are a few men here, so I don’t want you to think I’m ignoring you, but this is really not about you today. (Laughter.) Not at all. But you look — you all look good. You dressed up for your respective people. You’re not embarrassing anyone, which is good. (Laughter.)
For more: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/03/19/remarks-first-lady-champions-change-womens-veterans-event
11:25 AM ET
President Obama greets First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness of Northern Ireland
Promises Kept: Ending the Iraq War and Supporting Our Service Members, Military Families and Veterans
Jonathan Powers 19, 2013 11:00 AM EDT
Ed. note: Click here to see the timeline of President Obama’s promise to end the war in Iraq and support service members as they return home.
Ten years ago my US Army unit was returning from our final training exercise in preparation for deploying in support of Operation Iraq Freedom. We listened intensely as President Bush announced the start of the war 10 years ago today, and my platoon prepared to deploy as part of the 1st Armored Division into the breach of battle. Within a few short weeks, my soldiers and I were rolling across the Kuwaiti border on our way to Baghdad to relieve the 3rd Infantry Division.
My soldiers and I spent most of the next 15 months based out of a Forward Operating Base on the banks of the Tigris River trying to bring stability to a chaotic and complex situation. We had a front row seat as the Iraqi’s celebrated the capture of Saddam Hussein, but also felt the war turn as we went from eating dinners in the homes of everyday Iraqi’s to fighting insurgents on the streets in places like Najaf.
Although there is still much to learn about this war, one thing is certain; President Obama’s commitment and focus on taking care of our service members brought this war to an end. He held to his promise and ensured that by December of 2011, “the last American soldiers will cross the border out of Iraq—with their heads held high, proud of their success, and knowing that the American people stand united in our support for our troops.”
READ MORE: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2013/03/19/promises-kept-ending-iraq-war-and-supporting-our-service-members-military-families-a
March 19, 2013
Statement by the President on the 10th Anniversary of the Iraq War
As we mark the 10th anniversary of the beginning of the Iraq war, Michelle and I join our fellow Americans in paying tribute to all who served and sacrificed in one of our nation’s longest wars. We salute the courage and resolve of more than 1.5 million service members and civilians who during multiple tours wrote one of the most extraordinary chapters in military service. We honor the memory of the nearly 4,500 Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice to give the Iraqi people an opportunity to forge their own future after many years of hardship. And we express our gratitude to our extraordinary military families who sacrificed on the home front, especially our Gold Star families who remain in our prayers.
The last of our troops left Iraq with their heads held high in 2011, and the United States continues to work with our Iraqi partners to advance our shared interest in security and peace. Here at home, our obligations to those who served endure. We must ensure that the more than 30,000 Americans wounded in Iraq receive the care and benefits they deserve and that we continue to improve treatment for traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder. With a strong Post 9/11 GI Bill, we must help our newest veterans pursue their education and find jobs worthy of their incredible talents. And all Americans can continue to support and honor our military families who are pillars of so many of our communities. On this solemn anniversary, we draw strength and inspiration from these American patriots who exemplify the values of courage, selflessness and teamwork that define our Armed Forces and keep our nation great.
Just checking in to catch up and say hello CR. You never disappoint with good information. Have a wonderful day.
Hey COS!
Please join me in lighting a candle for the President, First Family and the Nation.
http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=PBO
5:45 PM ET
President Obama and First Lady Michelle hosts the White House St. Patrick’s Day Reception
WhiteHouse.gov http://www.whitehouse.gov/live
ABC News http://abcnews.go.com/Live/
St. Patrick’s Day at the White House 2013
Published on Mar 19, 2013
President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama welcome Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny to the White House for a St. Patrick’s Day reception.
Obama Cuts Student-Debt Collector Commissions to Aid Borrowers
Mar 18, 2013 9:01 PM PT By John Hechinger – bloomberg
President Barack Obama’s administration slashed the commissions paid to private collection companies that chase overdue student loans, reducing an incentive to squeeze borrowers.
Previously, the U.S. Education Department paid a commission as high as 16 percent of the entire loan amount only if collectors convinced defaulted borrowers to make stiff monthly payments. Starting this month, the fee dropped as low as 11 percent, no matter the payments’ size, according to a copy of a new contract obtained under the U.S. Freedom of Information Act.
With $77.4 billion worth of student loans in default, the federal government turns to an army of private collectors to pursue borrowers. These companies, which receive about $1 billion annually in commissions, have faced growing complaints that they insist on high payments, even when borrowers qualify for leniency, Bloomberg News reported in March 2012. Under the new schedule, collectors will no longer have an incentive to avoid offering affordable payments tied to borrowers’ incomes.
“It’s a big deal,” said Persis Yu, a staff attorney with the Boston-based National Consumer Law Center. “It will make life easier for borrowers. We’re not setting people up to fail.”
For more: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-03-19/obama-cuts-student-debt-collector-commissions-to-aid-borrowers.html
President Obama Drops by a Meeting with Small Business Leaders
Ari Matusiak March 21, 2013 04:36 PM EDT
A $6 million manufacturer, a five-person carbon capture start-up, and a 70-person medical device company. On Monday, the President met with the leaders of these small businesses and 100 more like them to discuss the economy and the President’s commitment to small business success.
Organized by the National Small Business Association (NSBA), the group at the White House flew in from over 20 states and represented a broad cross-section of industries. The typical small business owner in the room employed 50 people, generating around $10 million in annual revenue.
As Alan Krueger, the Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers, wrapped up his remarks on the state of the economy, the President stopped by for a surprise visit.
According to Todd McCracken, President and CEO of NSBA, the small business leaders were “delighted with the event and the President’s visit. He had a great deal of comfort with a broad range of issues that affect small businesses, from economic and tax issues to the specifics about things such as patent policy and small business innovation funds.”
READ MORE: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2013/03/21/president-obama-drops-meeting-small-business-leaders
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