Indiana Gov. Mike Pence's Relig...
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Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Stephen King Explains What Indiana's Anti-LGBT Law Has In Common With A Dog Turd
Stephen King might be a man of many words, but he kept his response to Indiana's new anti-gay law short and sweet.
Indiana Gov. Mike Pence's Relig...
Indiana Gov. Mike Pence's Relig...
This Romantic Disney World Proposal Is A Great To Start To Happily Ever After
Disney World is a hot spot for marriage proposals, and Patrick Santos and Gavin Hatch can count their engagement among the park's most romantic.
Hatch thought he was going out for drinks with a friend at Disney's Boardwalk in Florida, but upon his arrival, he was handed a card.
“Gavin, this very moment is the start of our new adventure together," it read. "You always talked about being in love like in the movies, however, all of the best love stories have one thing in common. You have to go against all odds to get there.”
Hatch continued to follow clues until he was met with a spectacular dance performance to Katy Perry's "Unconditionally" and, eventually, a proposal.
"I don't think Gavin had a clue what was going to happen to him that night," Santos told The Huffington Post. "I had to make up a few stories in order for all of this to be possible.”
Hatch said he was completely blown away by the proposal.
"When I was handed my first card, I knew Patrick was up to something ... as we continued to walk the boardwalk and I saw more and more of my friends, I started to think that it might be a proposal, but it just didn't hit me until I was handed the last card by my best friend," he told HuffPost. "I will admit though, I always knew that if Patrick was the one to pop the question, it would be a big and unforgettable event, and it sure was."
Well if that isn't the most romantic thing ever, we don't know what is.
Hatch thought he was going out for drinks with a friend at Disney's Boardwalk in Florida, but upon his arrival, he was handed a card.
“Gavin, this very moment is the start of our new adventure together," it read. "You always talked about being in love like in the movies, however, all of the best love stories have one thing in common. You have to go against all odds to get there.”
Hatch continued to follow clues until he was met with a spectacular dance performance to Katy Perry's "Unconditionally" and, eventually, a proposal.
"I don't think Gavin had a clue what was going to happen to him that night," Santos told The Huffington Post. "I had to make up a few stories in order for all of this to be possible.”
Hatch said he was completely blown away by the proposal.
"When I was handed my first card, I knew Patrick was up to something ... as we continued to walk the boardwalk and I saw more and more of my friends, I started to think that it might be a proposal, but it just didn't hit me until I was handed the last card by my best friend," he told HuffPost. "I will admit though, I always knew that if Patrick was the one to pop the question, it would be a big and unforgettable event, and it sure was."
Well if that isn't the most romantic thing ever, we don't know what is.
Labor Leader: 'We Will Not Stop' Fighting For Immigration Reform
WASHINGTON -- Help from the government for undocumented immigrants isn't coming as quickly as they wanted, but union leaders and immigration activists are not giving up on President Barack Obama's currently stalled executive action programs.
The AFL-CIO labor federation gathered about 200 people, mostly union members, in Washington on Tuesday for a three-day training on immigration advocacy. Part of that training will be focused on teaching people how to apply for Obama's immigration executive action programs, which are currently on hold by a court order.
"If anyone asks you why we’re holding this training now, while we wait for a judge to either clear the way or put up another hurdle, tell them this progress can be stalled but it cannot be stopped," AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said. "We’ve come this far. We’re going forward. We will not stop."
The initial triumph over Obama's November announcement that he would grant reprieve to more undocumented immigrants has turned into disappointment and confusion over the past six weeks, after a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction to prevent the policies from moving forward. Now, the more than 4 million undocumented immigrants who might be eligible for Obama's reprieve programs are in a holding pattern, and advocates are doing their best to keep them from losing hope.
The Obama administration and its supporters say they are confident they will eventually win out in the courts and be able to start the programs. In November, Obama announced an expansion of the existing Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA, that allows undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children to stay and work legally on a temporary basis. The executive actions would also create a similar policy for some parents called the Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents program, or DAPA.
At the training led by the AFL-CIO, attendees will hear more details about DAPA and DACA and strategize about how to ensure the changes are successfully implemented if the court order is lifted.
They will also learn to encourage legal permanent residents who are eligible to apply for citizenship to do so, and how to advocate more generally for immigration reform.
Trumka encouraged the crowd to keep pushing, despite setbacks.
"Don't let anybody tell you that we can't do it," he said. "We can do it."
The AFL-CIO labor federation gathered about 200 people, mostly union members, in Washington on Tuesday for a three-day training on immigration advocacy. Part of that training will be focused on teaching people how to apply for Obama's immigration executive action programs, which are currently on hold by a court order.
"If anyone asks you why we’re holding this training now, while we wait for a judge to either clear the way or put up another hurdle, tell them this progress can be stalled but it cannot be stopped," AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said. "We’ve come this far. We’re going forward. We will not stop."
The initial triumph over Obama's November announcement that he would grant reprieve to more undocumented immigrants has turned into disappointment and confusion over the past six weeks, after a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction to prevent the policies from moving forward. Now, the more than 4 million undocumented immigrants who might be eligible for Obama's reprieve programs are in a holding pattern, and advocates are doing their best to keep them from losing hope.
The Obama administration and its supporters say they are confident they will eventually win out in the courts and be able to start the programs. In November, Obama announced an expansion of the existing Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA, that allows undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children to stay and work legally on a temporary basis. The executive actions would also create a similar policy for some parents called the Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents program, or DAPA.
At the training led by the AFL-CIO, attendees will hear more details about DAPA and DACA and strategize about how to ensure the changes are successfully implemented if the court order is lifted.
They will also learn to encourage legal permanent residents who are eligible to apply for citizenship to do so, and how to advocate more generally for immigration reform.
Trumka encouraged the crowd to keep pushing, despite setbacks.
"Don't let anybody tell you that we can't do it," he said. "We can do it."
Uber Statement on NYC Driver-Partner
“The behavior in the video is wrong and unacceptable and we appreciate the NYPD investigating the incident. We are in touch with our driver-partner who was subjected to this terrible experience and will continue to provide any support he needs.”
Watch Indiana Gov. Mike Pence speak on controversial religious freedom law at 11 a.m. EDT
Indiana Governor Mike Pence will hold a news conference at 11 a.m. EDT to address his state’s controversial new religious freedom law. You can watch live in the embedded player above
Indiana Governor Mike Pence on Tuesday will speak on his state’s new controversial religious freedom law. The legislation, which Pence signed into law on Thursday, has come under a steady stream of criticism from civil rights groups and businesses that claim the new rules would allow discrimination against LGBT individuals.
In wake of the controversy, Pence has stood by the law, though he and state legislators have said that they will clarify the legislation.
The post Watch Indiana Gov. Mike Pence speak on controversial religious freedom law at 11 a.m. EDT appeared first on PBS NewsHour.
Monday, March 30, 2015
Trevor Noah Is Officially Your Next 'Daily Show' Host
"The Daily Show" finally has its new host: Trevor Noah.
Noah, a South African comedian and one of the newest "Daily Show" correspondents, was menti...
Noah, a South African comedian and one of the newest "Daily Show" correspondents, was menti...
Read more: The Daily Show, Daily Show Host, Trevor Noah, Trevor Noah Daily Show, Jon Stewart, The Daily Show With Jon Stewart, New Daily Show Host, Trevor Noah Correspondent, Comedy News
Easy Cheese 3D Printer Not Yet Viable, Tests Show (VIDEO)
Futurists everywhere, brace yourselves: The technological singularity is postponed until further notice.
Robots can do amazing things. They can pole dance. They can virtually masturbate us -- and by us, we mean this guy. More importantly, they can solve complex, boring problems that only computers have the bandwidth or focus to deal with.
But what they can't do (yet) is build a simple structure out of Easy Cheese. And for that reason, we believe its unlikely that the machines will rise, take over humanity and end history anytime soon.
You call that a cheese fort? Pathetic.
Critics may be inclined to blame the medium. Clearly, Easy Cheese lacks the tensile strength to build even a basic four-sided structure. But that's besides the point, because a true AI overload would solve that problem.
Thank you, Andrew Maxwell-Parish, for demonstrating that puny humans aren't out of time just yet.
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Robots can do amazing things. They can pole dance. They can virtually masturbate us -- and by us, we mean this guy. More importantly, they can solve complex, boring problems that only computers have the bandwidth or focus to deal with.
But what they can't do (yet) is build a simple structure out of Easy Cheese. And for that reason, we believe its unlikely that the machines will rise, take over humanity and end history anytime soon.
You call that a cheese fort? Pathetic.
Critics may be inclined to blame the medium. Clearly, Easy Cheese lacks the tensile strength to build even a basic four-sided structure. But that's besides the point, because a true AI overload would solve that problem.
Thank you, Andrew Maxwell-Parish, for demonstrating that puny humans aren't out of time just yet.
Like Us On Facebook | Follow Us On Twitter | Contact The AuthorBernanke Is Blogging and Tweeting Now
Former Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke stepped out onto the digital stage Monday, unveiling his new blog and Twitter account. Now a fellow with Brookings, which no doubt nudged him onto these platforms, his approach was confident, straightforward and mostly earned cheers from his fellow pundits and market watchers. By noon, he was only following [...]
Make No Mistake: Vancouver Gets a Lot for Its Transit Dollar
Vancouverites go to the polls in May to decide whether to raise sales taxes to fund a slate of transit improvements. But polls show the measure is headed for defeat. Other arguments aside, Jarrett Walker at Human Transit says one supposed “con” — that transit provider TransLink is incompetent and wasteful — ought to be nipped in the […]
Amazon Now Lets You Hire People To Do Chores, Fix Stuff
CHICAGO (Reuters) - Amazon.com Inc is launching a home services marketplace that will connect customers with electricians, plumbers and painters in a move to have its services tied to every product sold on its website.
Amazon Home Services, which will launch on Monday, will allow customers to buy 700 services such as car maintenance, TV wall-mounting and house cleaning at upfront prices. The quality of the service will be backed with an Amazon guarantee, which the retailer uses to vouch for products sold by third-party sellers on its website.
A home services marketplace will extend Amazon's role as a middleman for third-party vendors, which account for about 40 percent of its sales. It would also help Amazon gain an edge in the fast-growing services industry in the U.S. which the retailer estimates to be around $630 billion.
"Third party estimates show that customers spend four times more on services each year than they do on physical products," Peter Faricy, vice-president, Amazon Marketplace told Reuters.
"So for us the opportunity is very big," he said.
Around 85 million Amazon shoppers buy products that require servicing or installation, the company said. Amazon will roll out the service nationwide with "high coverage" in Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York.
Services marks a new frontier for Amazon, which has focused on selling products as it expanded from books into consumer goods, groceries and media. Local services have been tough for marketplace companies to turn a profit, since offerings must be tailored to each city or region.
Amazon will be in direct competition with Angie's List Inc, Craigslist Inc, and Yelp Inc as well as U.S. home improvement chains like Home Depot Inc and Lowe's Companies Inc, which have invested in ways to link customers with local plumbers, painters and other service providers.
Amazon will hand pick service professionals after running background checks and offer to match prices if customers get a lower price for the same service and professional on another site, store or directly from the professional within 30 days of a purchase, Faricy said.
Amazon Home Services will have a revenue share model with the service providers. The retailer will charge a 5 percent transaction fee, along with platform fees ranging from 10 percent for custom services and 15 percent for standardized services.
(Reporting by Nandita Bose in Chicago)
Amazon Home Services, which will launch on Monday, will allow customers to buy 700 services such as car maintenance, TV wall-mounting and house cleaning at upfront prices. The quality of the service will be backed with an Amazon guarantee, which the retailer uses to vouch for products sold by third-party sellers on its website.
A home services marketplace will extend Amazon's role as a middleman for third-party vendors, which account for about 40 percent of its sales. It would also help Amazon gain an edge in the fast-growing services industry in the U.S. which the retailer estimates to be around $630 billion.
"Third party estimates show that customers spend four times more on services each year than they do on physical products," Peter Faricy, vice-president, Amazon Marketplace told Reuters.
"So for us the opportunity is very big," he said.
Around 85 million Amazon shoppers buy products that require servicing or installation, the company said. Amazon will roll out the service nationwide with "high coverage" in Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York.
Services marks a new frontier for Amazon, which has focused on selling products as it expanded from books into consumer goods, groceries and media. Local services have been tough for marketplace companies to turn a profit, since offerings must be tailored to each city or region.
Amazon will be in direct competition with Angie's List Inc, Craigslist Inc, and Yelp Inc as well as U.S. home improvement chains like Home Depot Inc and Lowe's Companies Inc, which have invested in ways to link customers with local plumbers, painters and other service providers.
Amazon will hand pick service professionals after running background checks and offer to match prices if customers get a lower price for the same service and professional on another site, store or directly from the professional within 30 days of a purchase, Faricy said.
Amazon Home Services will have a revenue share model with the service providers. The retailer will charge a 5 percent transaction fee, along with platform fees ranging from 10 percent for custom services and 15 percent for standardized services.
(Reporting by Nandita Bose in Chicago)
The Most Shocking Allegations In Scientology Doc 'Going Clear'
The Church of Scientology has long been a controversial institution among both the religious community and entertainment business. But the latest docu...
Read more: Scientology, Scientology Documentary, Going Clear, Lawrence Wright Going Clear, Going Clear Scientology, Going Clear Hbo, Scientology Tom Cruise, Alex Gibney, Alex Gibney Going Clear, Entertainment Originals, Entertainment News
Man's Desperate Attempt To Win His Wife's Trust (VIDEO)
Melisa claims her husband Chris — from whom she's separated while she's pregnant with their second child — is a deceitful, manipulative, pathological liar who can't hold a job. Chris admits he's told so many lies he can't even remember all of them. But there's one that Melisa says she'll never forget. Watch the video above as she recalls a fake email she received supposedly from Chris' counselor, claiming Chris had made progress in his treatment so Melisa should "hold in there" while her husband conquered his issues.
After initially denying he had written the letter, Chris ultimately confessed it was from him. "I was desperate, I guess, to have her back in my life," Chris reveals.
Can this marriage be saved? Find out what Dr. Phil thinks.
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After initially denying he had written the letter, Chris ultimately confessed it was from him. "I was desperate, I guess, to have her back in my life," Chris reveals.
Can this marriage be saved? Find out what Dr. Phil thinks.
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1,000 Lies And Counting: A Husband Who Can't Tell The Truth (VIDEO)
Melisa claims her husband Chris, 27, is a pathological liar. He admits he's had a problem with lying since he's been a kid. But now she's 16 weeks pregnant with their second child, they're separated, and she's desperate for help.
She tells Dr. Phil, "If I could guess how many times Chris has lied to me over five years, you would laugh. There's no number. Literally, insanely, every day all day."
Looking back, Melisa says, "In the beginning of our relationship, I was so smitten by our chemistry." But now she realizes, "There were so many red flags in the beginning, but I was very oblivious. Love is blind."
Now she is struggling to put an end to their marriage. "I am in a scary, vicious cycle with him because I just get sucked in," she says. "I can't get out."
Chris understands Melisa's frustration. "I do not blame Melisa for not trusting me," he says. "I've lied about basically everything with her."
After pointing out that he wishes she didn't have a temper, and claiming that if she calmly confronted him he might own up to his lies, he adds, "Ultimately, I want Melisa to be proud of me. I want her to be respect me and to be her Prince Charming."
Dr. Phil confronts Melisa: "What the hell are you thinking? This guy's been lying to you since day one minute one, right?"
Watch the video above to see what happens when Dr. Phil steps in, and view more clips from this show here.
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She tells Dr. Phil, "If I could guess how many times Chris has lied to me over five years, you would laugh. There's no number. Literally, insanely, every day all day."
Looking back, Melisa says, "In the beginning of our relationship, I was so smitten by our chemistry." But now she realizes, "There were so many red flags in the beginning, but I was very oblivious. Love is blind."
Now she is struggling to put an end to their marriage. "I am in a scary, vicious cycle with him because I just get sucked in," she says. "I can't get out."
Chris understands Melisa's frustration. "I do not blame Melisa for not trusting me," he says. "I've lied about basically everything with her."
After pointing out that he wishes she didn't have a temper, and claiming that if she calmly confronted him he might own up to his lies, he adds, "Ultimately, I want Melisa to be proud of me. I want her to be respect me and to be her Prince Charming."
Dr. Phil confronts Melisa: "What the hell are you thinking? This guy's been lying to you since day one minute one, right?"
Watch the video above to see what happens when Dr. Phil steps in, and view more clips from this show here.
Like Dr. Phil | Follow Dr. Phil | Be on Dr. Phil | Ask Dr. PhilSunday, March 29, 2015
Caught on video: Fresno fire captain falls through the roof & is critically burned
TV station says video was posted at request of the Fresno FD
The UberFRESH Website Has Moved!
We're excited to announce that our new website is live. To view upcoming UberFRESH menus and FAQs moving forward, please visit www.uberfreshla.com.
Mike Pence Dodges Questions On Anti-Gay Discrimination In Indiana
WASHINGTON -- Indiana Gov. Mike Pence (R) refused to say on Sunday whether it should be illegal under state law to discriminate against gays and lesbi...
Read more: Mike Pence, Indiana, Indiana Anti Gay Law, Religious Freedom Law, Religious Freedom Law Indiana, Anti Lgbt Law, Mike Pence Gay Law, Mike Pence Clarify Anti Gay Law, Mike Pence Indiana, Religious Freedom Restoration Act, Video, Politics News
Liberian officials urge abstinence for Ebola survivors
A boy washes his hands before going to school in Monrovia, Liberia, Feb. 16, 2015. On Sunday, Liberian officials urged Ebola survivors to abstain from sex. Photo by James Giahyue/Reuters.
Liberian officials on Sunday urged Ebola survivors to observe a period of strict sexual abstinence after they recover from the deadly virus.
The recommendation comes amid fears that Liberia’s latest case of Ebola was the result of sexual transmission. That patient, 44-year-old Ruth Tugbah, died Friday.
Before Tugbah’s March 20 diagnosis, Liberia had gone several weeks without a new case, raising hopes that the West African country might have seen the last of the virus.
The abstinence recommendation is one of several recent indications that officials may be giving more credence to the idea that Ebola can be spread through sexual contact.
Research on whether Ebola can be transmitted sexually is inconclusive. The World Health Organization has said traces of the virus can be found in the semen of recovering men at least 82 days after they first show symptoms.
But it is unclear whether that fluid can then infect others, says Ann Kurth, Associate Dean for Research at New York University’s Global Institute of Public Health.
There is “no direct evidence or epidemiologic studies trying to test the precise primary research question of whether sexual transmission is a contributor,” Kurth said in a phone interview. She cautions that anecdotal reports indicate sexual transmission “is a risk,” however.
Though the WHO has previously advised Ebola survivors to practice abstinence or at least safe sex, the organization had not explicitly warned that sexual transmission might be a concern after the 42-day deadline.
Such revisions are sometimes necessary in public health policy, Kurth said.
“As the knowledge base grows, you sometimes have to update the messages,” she said. “That is a part of public health — we don’t always have all the answers right at the beginning.”
The post Liberian officials urge abstinence for Ebola survivors appeared first on PBS NewsHour.
'SNL' Spoofs Disney Remakes With Action-Packed 'Bambi' Trailer
Forget a "Fast & Furious 8." The cast is going Disney instead.
"Saturday Night Live" spoofed Disney's recent live-action remakes this weekend with the most hardcore reboot of a childhood classic yet: "Bambi." The heartfelt Disney story comes to life with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as the grown-up and super-ripped deer, Vin Diesel (Taran Killam) as a mumbling Thumper, Tyrese Gibson (Jay Pharoah) as adult skunk Flower and Michelle Rodriguez (Cecily Strong) as Faline. They shoot up a cabin full of hunters all in the name of Bambi's late mom.
Hopefully Ludacris has a cameo in the movie.
"Saturday Night Live" spoofed Disney's recent live-action remakes this weekend with the most hardcore reboot of a childhood classic yet: "Bambi." The heartfelt Disney story comes to life with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as the grown-up and super-ripped deer, Vin Diesel (Taran Killam) as a mumbling Thumper, Tyrese Gibson (Jay Pharoah) as adult skunk Flower and Michelle Rodriguez (Cecily Strong) as Faline. They shoot up a cabin full of hunters all in the name of Bambi's late mom.
Hopefully Ludacris has a cameo in the movie.
O’Malley: presidency ‘not some crown’ to be shared by two families
Former Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley speaks at a campaign rally for Lieutenant Governor Anthony Brown, Democratic nominee for Maryland governor in College Park, Maryland October 30, 2014. Appearing Sunday on ABC’s “This Week,” O’Malley said, “The presidency of the United States is not some crown to be passed between two families.” Photo by Jonathan Ernst/Reuters
WASHINGTON — Potential Democratic presidential candidate Martin O’Malley said Sunday that the country needs fresh perspectives for confronting its problems and criticized the prospects of the Clinton and Bush families yet again seeking the White House.
“The presidency of the United States is not some crown to be passed between two families,” the former Maryland governor told ABC’s “This Week.”
O’Malley spoke as former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is considered a likely candidate and clear front runner for the Democratic nomination. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush is considered a probable contender for the Republican nomination.
“I think that our country always benefits from new leadership and new perspectives,” O’Malley said. He added, “We need a president who’s on our side, a president who’s willing to take on powerful, wealthy special interests” to restore the economy.
Asked if Clinton would take on special interests, O’Malley said, “I don’t know. I don’t know where she stands. Will she represent a break with the failed policies of the past? I don’t know.”
O’Malley said he will decide whether to run for president this spring and questioned whether his party’s nomination of Clinton – also a former senator and first lady – is inevitable.
“History is full of times when the inevitable front-runner is inevitable right up until he or she is no longer inevitable,” he said.
O’Malley’s response to questions slowed noticeably when asked what he considers the top foreign threat faced by the U.S.
“Uh, the greatest danger that we face right now on a consistent basis in terms of man-made threats, is uh, is uh, nuclear Iran and related to that, uh, extremist violence. I don’t think you can separate the two,” he said.
The post O’Malley: presidency ‘not some crown’ to be shared by two families appeared first on PBS NewsHour.
Mike Pence Dodges Questions On Anti-Gay Discrimination In Indiana
WASHINGTON -- Indiana Gov. Mike Pence (R) refused to say on Sunday whether it should be illegal under state law to discriminate against gays and lesbians.
Pence appeared on ABC's "This Week" to defend his decision to sign a controversial piece of legislation intended to protect religious liberties that critics say will enable discrimination in the state. The Religious Freedom Restoration Act would allow individuals and corporations to cite religious beliefs in private litigation. Pence's decision to sign the bill into law has sparked backlash against the state.
In the interview, Pence dodged a question from George Stephanopoulos about whether the law would allow florists and bakers to deny their wedding services to gay couples by citing their religious beliefs. He also twice dodged a yes-or-no question on whether he believed it should be legal to discriminate against gays and lesbians under state law.
Pence defended his decision to sign the legislation, saying it was "absolutely not" a mistake to sign the law.
"If the general assembly in Indiana sends me a bill that adds a section that reiterates and amplifies and clarifies what the law really is and what it has been for the last 20 years, then I'm open to that," the governor said. "But we're -- we're not going to change this law."
He said there has been misinformation about the law and insisted it was intended to protect religious liberty.
"This is not about discrimination," Pence said, adding that tolerance is "a two-way street" and that there had been a lot of "shameless rhetoric" against the state law.
Pence said earlier this weekend that passing legislation to protect the rights of gays and lesbians is "not on my agenda."
Pence appeared on ABC's "This Week" to defend his decision to sign a controversial piece of legislation intended to protect religious liberties that critics say will enable discrimination in the state. The Religious Freedom Restoration Act would allow individuals and corporations to cite religious beliefs in private litigation. Pence's decision to sign the bill into law has sparked backlash against the state.
In the interview, Pence dodged a question from George Stephanopoulos about whether the law would allow florists and bakers to deny their wedding services to gay couples by citing their religious beliefs. He also twice dodged a yes-or-no question on whether he believed it should be legal to discriminate against gays and lesbians under state law.
Pence defended his decision to sign the legislation, saying it was "absolutely not" a mistake to sign the law.
"If the general assembly in Indiana sends me a bill that adds a section that reiterates and amplifies and clarifies what the law really is and what it has been for the last 20 years, then I'm open to that," the governor said. "But we're -- we're not going to change this law."
He said there has been misinformation about the law and insisted it was intended to protect religious liberty.
"This is not about discrimination," Pence said, adding that tolerance is "a two-way street" and that there had been a lot of "shameless rhetoric" against the state law.
Pence said earlier this weekend that passing legislation to protect the rights of gays and lesbians is "not on my agenda."
What Do Sex And Sword Swallowing Have In Common?
Sex and sword swallowing beg some pretty obvious comparisons, but the similarities aren't as clear-cut as you might think, at least according to professional sword swallower Brett Loudermilk.
The flowing-haired, bemustached 26-year-old sat down with HuffPost Weird News to chat about this history of sword swallowing, making a living as a sideshow performer, and exactly how you get something so long and hard down your throat.
If you're interested in becoming a sword swallower yourself, definitely don't follow the instructions in Brett's totally-fake tutorial below:
Check out our previous episodes, and other HuffPost podcasts, on our SoundCloud page. Thanks to our producer Katelyn Bogucki and our guest Brett Loudermilk.
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The flowing-haired, bemustached 26-year-old sat down with HuffPost Weird News to chat about this history of sword swallowing, making a living as a sideshow performer, and exactly how you get something so long and hard down your throat.
If you're interested in becoming a sword swallower yourself, definitely don't follow the instructions in Brett's totally-fake tutorial below:
Check out our previous episodes, and other HuffPost podcasts, on our SoundCloud page. Thanks to our producer Katelyn Bogucki and our guest Brett Loudermilk.
Like Us On Facebook | Follow Us On Twitter | Contact The Author8 Facts That'll Change How You View 'The Breakfast Club'
In the same way that people are more than just a brain, an athlete, a basket case, a princess or a criminal, "The Breakfast Club" is more than just a ...
Read more: Breakfast Club, The Breakfast Club Anniversary, Breakfast Club Facts, Behind the Scenes, Ally Sheedy, John Kapelos, Emilio Estevez, Judd Nelson, Molly Ringwald, Video, Entertainment Originals, Entertainment News
Raw video & radio traffic from Cheektowaga, NY house fire
Evacuation ordered at fire on Calla Way on Saturday
Saturday, March 28, 2015
To Avert Repeat Of 2008, Clinton Team Hopes To Keep Bill At His Best
Bill Clinton’s hearing has faded. With his head of white hair and frail frame, he looks older than his 68 years — “truly grandfatherly,” as one friend said. He often jokes about what would happen if he were to “drop dead.”
Kentucky, Wisconsin Head To Final Four
CLEVELAND (AP) — Pushed to the brink, Kentucky's still perfect and still playing.
Andrew Harrison made two free throws with six seconds remaining, and the top-seeded Wildcats kept their unbeaten season and national title hopes intact with a 68-66 win over Notre Dame on Saturday night in the Midwest Regional final.
The Wildcats (38-0) advanced to the Final Four in Indianapolis next week, where they will meet Wisconsin.
It took everything Kentucky had to hold off the Fighting Irish (32-6), who came within seconds of shocking the tournament's overwhelming favorite. Notre Dame, which has a history of stunning upsets in football and basketball, wasn't done until Jerian Grant's double-clutch 3-pointer from the left corner was long.
Kentucky's bench stormed the floor and the Wildcats, who only had one other two-point game this season, celebrated knowing they had ducked a major challenge and are now just two wins from becoming the first team to go undefeated since Indiana in 1976.
"We didn't play very well and Notre Dame, I thought, controlled the whole thing, but we made the plays," Kentucky coach John Calipari said. "We figured out a way to win it. We're just saying one more game, play our best. We've had other tests, but we have a will to win."
Karl-Anthony Towns scored 25 to lead Kentucky, which trailed for most of the second half.
Zach Auguste scored 20, Steve Vasturia 16 and Grant 15 for the third-seeded Fighting Irish, playing in their first regional final in 36 years.
There was no doubt Notre Dame belonged. The ACC tournament champions controlled the tempo and weren't intimated by the Wildcats and their collection of high school All-Americans and soon-to-be NBA millionaires.
Calipari insisted on Friday his team was not perfect, only unbeaten and that any team left in the tournament was capable of toppling the top Cats.
Andrew Harrison made two free throws with six seconds remaining, and the top-seeded Wildcats kept their unbeaten season and national title hopes intact with a 68-66 win over Notre Dame on Saturday night in the Midwest Regional final.
The Wildcats (38-0) advanced to the Final Four in Indianapolis next week, where they will meet Wisconsin.
It took everything Kentucky had to hold off the Fighting Irish (32-6), who came within seconds of shocking the tournament's overwhelming favorite. Notre Dame, which has a history of stunning upsets in football and basketball, wasn't done until Jerian Grant's double-clutch 3-pointer from the left corner was long.
Kentucky's bench stormed the floor and the Wildcats, who only had one other two-point game this season, celebrated knowing they had ducked a major challenge and are now just two wins from becoming the first team to go undefeated since Indiana in 1976.
"We didn't play very well and Notre Dame, I thought, controlled the whole thing, but we made the plays," Kentucky coach John Calipari said. "We figured out a way to win it. We're just saying one more game, play our best. We've had other tests, but we have a will to win."
Karl-Anthony Towns scored 25 to lead Kentucky, which trailed for most of the second half.
Zach Auguste scored 20, Steve Vasturia 16 and Grant 15 for the third-seeded Fighting Irish, playing in their first regional final in 36 years.
There was no doubt Notre Dame belonged. The ACC tournament champions controlled the tempo and weren't intimated by the Wildcats and their collection of high school All-Americans and soon-to-be NBA millionaires.
Calipari insisted on Friday his team was not perfect, only unbeaten and that any team left in the tournament was capable of toppling the top Cats.
BREAKING: UK cutting nets pic.twitter.com/hQ3vyqnnLC
— Matt Norlander (@MattNorlander) March 29, 2015Britain's David Cameron Rallies Party Before Election
LONDON (AP) — Prime Minister David Cameron said Saturday that Britain's election campaign is on a knife edge, as he rallied the Conservative party with a personal attack on his main rival.
Cameron told a party rally that "this isn't any election. This is a high-stakes, high-risk election."
"This is a knife-edge election and can only be cut two ways: Conservative or Labour," Cameron said. "Britain on the rise or turning the clock back."
The campaign officially kicks off Monday, when Parliament is dissolved before the May 7 vote. Polls suggest neither the Conservatives nor Labour will win a majority of seats.
In a sign the close-fought battle will be bruising, Cameron launched a personal attack on Labour leader Ed Miliband.
"I know what this role needs — and frankly, I don't think Ed Miliband has it," Cameron said.
"Some people might say, 'Don't make this personal,' but when it comes to who's prime minister, the personal is national."
Cameron slammed Miliband's left-of-center party as a "bunch of hypocritical, holier-than-thou, hopeless, sneering socialists."
Miliband launched his election campaign Friday from the top of London's Orbit tower, promising to preserve the cash-strapped National Health Service.
Cameron also made the NHS a key issue, vowing that his government would ensure people had access to doctors and hospital services seven days a week.
"With a future Conservative government, we would have a truly seven-day NHS," Cameron said — though he didn't outline how he would pay for it.
Cameron's coalition government has cut billions in spending in a bid to curb the country's deficit, and he says austerity measures will continue in a second term.
Cameron told a party rally that "this isn't any election. This is a high-stakes, high-risk election."
"This is a knife-edge election and can only be cut two ways: Conservative or Labour," Cameron said. "Britain on the rise or turning the clock back."
The campaign officially kicks off Monday, when Parliament is dissolved before the May 7 vote. Polls suggest neither the Conservatives nor Labour will win a majority of seats.
In a sign the close-fought battle will be bruising, Cameron launched a personal attack on Labour leader Ed Miliband.
"I know what this role needs — and frankly, I don't think Ed Miliband has it," Cameron said.
"Some people might say, 'Don't make this personal,' but when it comes to who's prime minister, the personal is national."
Cameron slammed Miliband's left-of-center party as a "bunch of hypocritical, holier-than-thou, hopeless, sneering socialists."
Miliband launched his election campaign Friday from the top of London's Orbit tower, promising to preserve the cash-strapped National Health Service.
Cameron also made the NHS a key issue, vowing that his government would ensure people had access to doctors and hospital services seven days a week.
"With a future Conservative government, we would have a truly seven-day NHS," Cameron said — though he didn't outline how he would pay for it.
Cameron's coalition government has cut billions in spending in a bid to curb the country's deficit, and he says austerity measures will continue in a second term.
NBA Promises 'Inclusion' In Face Of New Indiana 'Religious Freedom' Law
WASHINGTON -- The backlash to Indiana's new "religious freedom" law grew stronger Saturday, with professional basketball organizations and teams condemning the measure.
“The game of basketball is grounded in long established principles of inclusion and mutual respect. We will continue to ensure that all fans, players and employees feel welcome at all NBA and WNBA events in Indiana and elsewhere," said a joint statement issued by the National Basketball Association, the Women's National Basketball Association, the Indiana Pacers and the Indiana Fever.
Indiana Pacers and Fever owner Herb Simon added that all fans and players will continue to be welcome at his games.
“The Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever and Bankers Life Fieldhouse have the strongest possible commitment to inclusion and non-discrimination on any basis," he said. "Everyone is always welcome at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. That has always been the policy from the very beginning of the Simon family’s involvement and it always will be."
Indiana's new Religious Freedom Restoration Act will allow any individual or corporation to cite its religious beliefs as a defense when sued by a private party. But what most troubles opponents of the legislation is that it could open the door to widespread discrimination. Business owners who don't want to serve same-sex couples, for example, may now have legal protections to discriminate.
Indiana Gov. Mike Pence (R) signed the legislation despite opposition from business leaders, convention organizers and even the Republican mayor of the state's largest city.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association, which is set to hold its men's Final Four game in Indianapolis next week, also came out Thursday and condemned the new law. Reggie Miller, the former NBA star who played for the Pacers for 18 years, tweeted his disappointment Friday:
Other businesses that have criticized Pence for signing the law include tech giant Salesforce -- whose CEO said the company will be cancelling events in the state -- and Angie's List -- whose Republican CEO said he will not be moving forward with a $40 million expansion of the company's headquarters in Indianapolis.
"Angie's List is open to all and discriminates against none," Bill Oesterle said, "and we are hugely disappointed in what this bill represents."
Under pressure, Pence told the Indianapolis Star Saturday that he will back the introduction of a bill to "clarify" that the law does not promote discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals. Such a measure could come next week.
“I support religious liberty, and I support this law,” Pence said. “But we are in discussions with legislative leaders this weekend to see if there’s a way to clarify the intent of the law.”
But gay rights advocates greeted Pence's announcement skeptically. Human Rights Campaign President Chad Griffin tweeted that legislation would need to include explicit LGBT protections -- something that Pence has already said is not on his "agenda."
"You can't 'clarify' discrimination. Indiana now has billions of dollars and thousands of jobs on the line, all because the Governor wouldn't stop this dangerous bill," added Katie Blair, campaign manager of Freedom Indiana. "He has a second chance to save our reputation for Hoosier hospitality, but he has to stand up and protect LGBT Hoosiers."
Want more updates from Amanda? Sign up for her newsletter, Piping Hot Truth.
“The game of basketball is grounded in long established principles of inclusion and mutual respect. We will continue to ensure that all fans, players and employees feel welcome at all NBA and WNBA events in Indiana and elsewhere," said a joint statement issued by the National Basketball Association, the Women's National Basketball Association, the Indiana Pacers and the Indiana Fever.
Indiana Pacers and Fever owner Herb Simon added that all fans and players will continue to be welcome at his games.
“The Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever and Bankers Life Fieldhouse have the strongest possible commitment to inclusion and non-discrimination on any basis," he said. "Everyone is always welcome at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. That has always been the policy from the very beginning of the Simon family’s involvement and it always will be."
Indiana's new Religious Freedom Restoration Act will allow any individual or corporation to cite its religious beliefs as a defense when sued by a private party. But what most troubles opponents of the legislation is that it could open the door to widespread discrimination. Business owners who don't want to serve same-sex couples, for example, may now have legal protections to discriminate.
Indiana Gov. Mike Pence (R) signed the legislation despite opposition from business leaders, convention organizers and even the Republican mayor of the state's largest city.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association, which is set to hold its men's Final Four game in Indianapolis next week, also came out Thursday and condemned the new law. Reggie Miller, the former NBA star who played for the Pacers for 18 years, tweeted his disappointment Friday:
— Reggie Miller (@ReggieMillerTNT) March 27, 2015Other businesses that have criticized Pence for signing the law include tech giant Salesforce -- whose CEO said the company will be cancelling events in the state -- and Angie's List -- whose Republican CEO said he will not be moving forward with a $40 million expansion of the company's headquarters in Indianapolis.
"Angie's List is open to all and discriminates against none," Bill Oesterle said, "and we are hugely disappointed in what this bill represents."
Under pressure, Pence told the Indianapolis Star Saturday that he will back the introduction of a bill to "clarify" that the law does not promote discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals. Such a measure could come next week.
“I support religious liberty, and I support this law,” Pence said. “But we are in discussions with legislative leaders this weekend to see if there’s a way to clarify the intent of the law.”
But gay rights advocates greeted Pence's announcement skeptically. Human Rights Campaign President Chad Griffin tweeted that legislation would need to include explicit LGBT protections -- something that Pence has already said is not on his "agenda."
Note to @GovPenceIN: 'clarification' is phony unless it has explicit LGBT nondiscrim protections & RFRA civilrights carveout. @JohnRussell99
— Chad Griffin (@ChadHGriffin) March 29, 2015"You can't 'clarify' discrimination. Indiana now has billions of dollars and thousands of jobs on the line, all because the Governor wouldn't stop this dangerous bill," added Katie Blair, campaign manager of Freedom Indiana. "He has a second chance to save our reputation for Hoosier hospitality, but he has to stand up and protect LGBT Hoosiers."
Want more updates from Amanda? Sign up for her newsletter, Piping Hot Truth.
Australia To Join Negotiations On Chinese-Led Bank
CANBERRA, Australia (AP) — Australia announced on Sunday that it would join negotiations to establish a new a Chinese-led Asian regional bank that has emerged as a potential challenge to United States influence in a part of the world where the Obama administration has tried to forge stronger ties.
The U.S. has expressed concern the new Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, or AIIB, will allow looser lending standards for financial transparency, the environment and labor rights. The U.S. also worries the new bank will undercut the World Bank, where the U.S. has the most clout, and the Asian Development Bank, where it is the second-largest shareholder after Japan. Prime Minister Tony Abbott, Foreign Minister Julie Bishop and Treasurer Joe Hockey said in a joint statement that the government will sign a memorandum of understanding that will allow Australia to participate as a prospective founding member in negotiations to set up the bank.
"Good progress has been made on the bank's design, governance and transparency over the past few months, but we still have issues that we will address through ongoing consultations," the statement said.
"Key matters to be resolved before Australia considers joining the AIIB include the bank's board of directors having authority over key investment decisions, and that no one country control the bank," it added.
Beijing has pledged to put up most of the initial $50 billion in capital for the bank, which is expected to be set up by year's end. It is intended to help finance construction of roads and other infrastructure.
Working with institutions such as the World Bank and the Asia Development Bank, the AIIB has the potential to play a valuable role in addressing infrastructure needs and boosting economic growth in the region, with potential benefits for Australia, the joint statement said.
India and all 10 members of Southeast Asia's regional bloc are among the more than 30 governments that have so far sought to join the bank before a March 31 deadline.
While Japan, which has tense relations with China, is still holding out, the Obama administration appears increasingly at odds with sentiment in the very region where it has tried to strengthen its relationships over the past five years.
Abbott said last week that he expected skeptical countries including the United States and Japan would also join if China gave required assurances on transparency and board management.
The U.S. has expressed concern the new Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, or AIIB, will allow looser lending standards for financial transparency, the environment and labor rights. The U.S. also worries the new bank will undercut the World Bank, where the U.S. has the most clout, and the Asian Development Bank, where it is the second-largest shareholder after Japan. Prime Minister Tony Abbott, Foreign Minister Julie Bishop and Treasurer Joe Hockey said in a joint statement that the government will sign a memorandum of understanding that will allow Australia to participate as a prospective founding member in negotiations to set up the bank.
"Good progress has been made on the bank's design, governance and transparency over the past few months, but we still have issues that we will address through ongoing consultations," the statement said.
"Key matters to be resolved before Australia considers joining the AIIB include the bank's board of directors having authority over key investment decisions, and that no one country control the bank," it added.
Beijing has pledged to put up most of the initial $50 billion in capital for the bank, which is expected to be set up by year's end. It is intended to help finance construction of roads and other infrastructure.
Working with institutions such as the World Bank and the Asia Development Bank, the AIIB has the potential to play a valuable role in addressing infrastructure needs and boosting economic growth in the region, with potential benefits for Australia, the joint statement said.
India and all 10 members of Southeast Asia's regional bloc are among the more than 30 governments that have so far sought to join the bank before a March 31 deadline.
While Japan, which has tense relations with China, is still holding out, the Obama administration appears increasingly at odds with sentiment in the very region where it has tried to strengthen its relationships over the past five years.
Abbott said last week that he expected skeptical countries including the United States and Japan would also join if China gave required assurances on transparency and board management.
WATCH: Nebraska Man Asks Oil Commission Just One Question: 'Would You Drink It?'
James Osborn has just one question: "Would you drink it?"
"It" being a mysterious brown sludge -- allegedly fracking fluid -- that Osborn brought in a foam cup to a public hearing in Sidney, Nebraska, in front of the state Oil and Gas Conservation Commission on Tuesday.
And no, it wasn't a hypothetical question.
Osborn, the first of more than 50 people to speak out Tuesday on a proposed fracking wastewater storage well in the western part of the state, chatted amiably to the commissioners as he produced three plastic cups and poured a little bottled water into each. He then topped off each of the cups with a healthy portion of the mystery fluid, and offered them to the commissioners to drink.
"You told me this morning when I was in here... that you would drink this water," Osborn can be heard saying in a video posted to YouTube. He then gestures to the cups and calmly asks, "So, would you drink it?"
A pregnant silence follows, broken only when one of the commissioners cautions, "Sir, we [can't] comment on this."
Osborn spoke for several more minutes, then thanked the commissioners and the audience for their time and left the room.
According to the Omaha World-Herald, the three cups sat "untouched" for the remainder of the two-and-a-half-hour meeting.
(h/t Reddit)
"It" being a mysterious brown sludge -- allegedly fracking fluid -- that Osborn brought in a foam cup to a public hearing in Sidney, Nebraska, in front of the state Oil and Gas Conservation Commission on Tuesday.
And no, it wasn't a hypothetical question.
Osborn, the first of more than 50 people to speak out Tuesday on a proposed fracking wastewater storage well in the western part of the state, chatted amiably to the commissioners as he produced three plastic cups and poured a little bottled water into each. He then topped off each of the cups with a healthy portion of the mystery fluid, and offered them to the commissioners to drink.
"You told me this morning when I was in here... that you would drink this water," Osborn can be heard saying in a video posted to YouTube. He then gestures to the cups and calmly asks, "So, would you drink it?"
A pregnant silence follows, broken only when one of the commissioners cautions, "Sir, we [can't] comment on this."
Osborn spoke for several more minutes, then thanked the commissioners and the audience for their time and left the room.
According to the Omaha World-Herald, the three cups sat "untouched" for the remainder of the two-and-a-half-hour meeting.
(h/t Reddit)
Iran nuclear talks expand as deadline for deal approaches
US Secretary of State John Kerry (L) and French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius (R) talk before a meeting at the Beau Rivage Palace Hotel March 28, 2015 in Lausanne. Talks have expanded as deadline for a nuclear deal looms. Photo by Brendan Smialowski/REUTERS
LAUSANNE, Switzerland — Negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program picked up pace on Saturday with the French and German foreign ministers joining U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry in talks with Tehran’s top diplomat ahead of an end-of-March deadline for a preliminary deal.
With just four days to go until that target, negotiators in the Swiss town of Lausanne settled in for another round of lengthy sessions that they hope will produce an outline of an agreement that can become the basis for a comprehensive deal to be reached by the end of June.
Iranian negotiator Majid Takht-e Ravanchi denied a news report that the sides were close to agreement, and other officials also spoke of remaining obstacles.
French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius told reporters as he arrived that the talks have been “long and difficult. We’ve advanced on certain issues, not yet enough on others.”
Iranian nuclear agency chief Ali Akbar Salehi described one or two issues as becoming “twisted.” He told Iran’s ISNA news agency that the sides were working to resolve the difficulties.
Kerry met early in the day with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, ahead of talks with Fabius and Germany’s Frank-Walter Steinmeier. The foreign ministers of Russia, China and Britain also were expected in Lausanne over the weekend.
Diplomats at the talks said their presence does not necessarily mean a deal is almost done.
Steinmeier avoided predictions of an outcome, saying only that a nuclear deal could help ease Mideast tensions.
“The endgame of the long negotiations has begun,” he said.
Iran says its nuclear ambitions are purely peaceful; other nations fear it is seeking to develop weapons.
Progress has been made on the main issue: the future of Iran’s uranium enrichment program. It can produce material for energy, science and medicine but also for the fissile core of a nuclear weapon.
The sides tentatively have agreed that Iran would run no more than 6,000 centrifuges at its main enrichment site for at least 10 years, with slowly easing restrictions over the next five years on that program and others Tehran could use to make a bomb.
The fate of a fortified underground bunker previously used for uranium enrichment also appears closer to resolution.
Officials have told The Associated Press that the U.S. may allow Iran to run hundreds of centrifuges at the Fordo bunker in exchange for limits on centrifuge work and research and development at other sites. The Iranians would not be allowed to do work that could lead to an atomic bomb and the site would be subject to international inspections.
Instead of uranium, any centrifuges permitted at Fordo would be fed elements used in medicine, industry or science, the officials said.
Even if the centrifuges were converted to enrich uranium, there would not be enough of them to produce the amount needed to make a weapon within a year – the minimum time frame that Washington and its negotiating partners demand.
A nearly finished nuclear reactor would be re-engineered to produce much less plutonium than originally envisaged.
Still problematic is Iran’s research and development program.
Tehran would like fewer constraints on developing advanced centrifuges than the U.S. is willing to grant.
Also in dispute is the fate of economic penalties against Iran.
In addition, questions persist about how Iran’s compliance with an agreement would be monitored.
Fabius suggested that France was not yet satisfied on that point.
The post Iran nuclear talks expand as deadline for deal approaches appeared first on PBS NewsHour.
Masi Oka's Hiro Nakamura Will Return For 'Heroes Reborn'
"Heroes" fans haven’t seen the last of Hiro Nakamura.
Kenyans Sweep Races At World Cross Country Championships
GUIYANG, China (AP) — Kenya's Geoffrey Kamworor outsprinted teammate Bedan Karoki to capture the men's title at the world cross country championships on Saturday, while 19-year-old Agnes Tirop of Kenya became the youngest winner in the women's race in 30 years.
Kamworor and Karoki led for much of the 12-kilometer (7.5-mile) race before Kamworor pulled away in the last 300 meters to win in 34 minutes, 52 seconds. Karoki finished second in 35:00, while Ethiopia's Muktar Edris was third in 35:06.
In the women's race, Tirop outpaced Ethiopia's Senbere Teferi over the final 200 meters to win the 8-kilometer (5-mile) race in 26:01 to become the youngest champion since Britain's Zola Budd in 1985, who was 18.
Teferi was second in 26:06 and teammate Netsanet Gudeta was third in 26:11.
Despite Kenya's individual victories, Ethiopia took the team titles in both the men's and women's races.
Kamworor and Karoki led for much of the 12-kilometer (7.5-mile) race before Kamworor pulled away in the last 300 meters to win in 34 minutes, 52 seconds. Karoki finished second in 35:00, while Ethiopia's Muktar Edris was third in 35:06.
In the women's race, Tirop outpaced Ethiopia's Senbere Teferi over the final 200 meters to win the 8-kilometer (5-mile) race in 26:01 to become the youngest champion since Britain's Zola Budd in 1985, who was 18.
Teferi was second in 26:06 and teammate Netsanet Gudeta was third in 26:11.
Despite Kenya's individual victories, Ethiopia took the team titles in both the men's and women's races.
Best Tweets: What Women Said On Twitter This Week
Each week HuffPost Women rounds up the most hilarious 140-character jokes from women on Twitter we could find to brighten your day. We've got to hand it you ladies, these keep us laughing every single week. For this week's great tweets from women, scroll through the list below. Then visit our Funniest Tweets From Women page for our past collections.
I hate when chocolate kisses melt in my gym bag and ruin my unused work out clothes.
— Paula Pell (@perlapell) March 24, 2015When God closes a window, he opens a tab
— Jazmine Hughes (@jazzedloon) March 27, 2015Gonna start calling all these sexist trolls him- orrhoids
— Lizz Winstead (@lizzwinstead) March 27, 2015“jade” is such a ‘90s word for “teal”
— Anne Helen Petersen (@annehelen) March 23, 2015I'm just not cut out to be a person.
— June O'Hara (@juneohara65) March 24, 2015Hub: What's this?
Me: A divorce jar. Every time we fight you put a dollar in & I'm a little closer to freedom.
Hub: *puts $100 in*
Me:...
— Saucy Kensington (@Book_Krazy) March 22, 2015Kinda wanna eat a jar of peanut butter, kinda wanna nap, kinda wanna punch a stranger. Being a woman is hard.
— heather lou* (@heatherlou_) March 22, 2015If you don't like dogs.. I don't like you.
— CoCo Nutz (@in_cognico) March 24, 2015I think "uggggh carry meeee" way too much for an adult.
— bananafanafofisa (@lisaxy424) March 24, 2015i think we all know whose feelings have been hurt the most by one direction and that's north west
— lauren ashley bishop (@sbellelauren) March 25, 2015I stuck my hand into a coin-filled fountain and used $3.99 of other people's wishes to buy a burrito.
— Elizabeth Hackett (@LizHackett) March 25, 2015if you wanna get your period just wear your nicest, fanciest underwear and let karma do the rest
— Sandy Honig (@sandyhonig) March 24, 2015feeling really betrayed by my face's decision to start exhibiting glare wrinkles before laugh lines
— Alexandria Symonds (@a_symonds) March 23, 2015A teen movie where in order to look good at the dance the girl is encouraged to wear glasses and pull her hair back.
— Abbi Crutchfield (@curlycomedy) March 27, 2015So Zayn was Ginger Spice all along?
— Hillary Busis (@hillibusterr) March 25, 2015a fun thing to do when you leave a room is to loudly announce where you're going and tell a random stranger to hold your calls
— Alexis Wilkinson (@OhGodItsAlexis) March 23, 2015There comes a time in a lady's life when she has more hair knotted around her elastic than her male suitors have covering their heads
— Colette McIntyre (@calledcolette) March 26, 2015I love to travel!
from my bed to my couch to my office chair to the subway to my bed to my couch to my office chair to the bathroom to
— Lynn Bixenspan (@lynnbixenspan) March 27, 2015i live every day in fear my gchat records will somehow be used against me in a court of law
— Kasia Galazka (@supergalaxy) March 27, 2015good lesbian porn title = "L Word Scissorhands"
— Megan Amram (@meganamram) March 26, 2015Receiving people's resumes really makes you realize how many people have last names that sound like body parts
— Michelle Markowitz (@michmarkowitz) March 27, 2015Yemen's President: Houthis Are 'Stooges Of Iran'
SHARM EL-SHEIKH, Egypt (AP) — Yemen's embattled president on Saturday called Shiite rebels who forced him to flee the country "stooges of Iran," directly blaming the Islamic Republic for the chaos there and demanding airstrikes against rebel positions continue until they surrender.
Other leaders, including the leaders of Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, obliquely referenced Iran earlier at the opening session of an Arab summit held in Egypt's Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh. They blamed Shiite, non-Arab Iran for meddling in the affairs of Arab nations, with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi saying, without mentioning Iran by name, that it was "spreading its ailment in the body."
Yemeni President Abdel Rabbo Mansour Hadi directly challenged Iran in his remarks. He also called for his supporters to rise up in peaceful protest against the Shiite rebels, known as Houthis. He said the airstrikes staged by Saudi Arabia and its allies against the Houthis must not stop before they surrender and return medium and heavy weapons they looted from army depots across much of the country.
Iran and the Houthis deny that Tehran arms the rebel movement. Officials there had no immediate comment on Hadi's remarks.
Hadi fled Yemen earlier this week, making his way to Saudi Arabia after leaving the southern coastal city of Aden in the face of a push into southern Yemen by the Houthis and their allies, including forces loyal to ousted leader Ali Abdullah Saleh.
Also addressing the summit, Saudi Arabia's monarch, King Salman, said the military campaign in Yemen would not stop before security and stability are restored in Yemen.
El-Sissi also endorsed a resolution adopted by Arab foreign ministers on Thursday for the creation of an Arab military force, saying the Arab world was currently facing unprecedented threats.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Press Agency reported Saturday that its navy had evacuated 86 diplomats and others from Aden on Wednesday. It did not identify the nationalities of all those it evacuated in the operation, though it said diplomats from the United Arab Emirates and Qatar were on hand Saturday when those evacuated arrived at a Jiddah naval base.
Pakistan also announced Saturday it had two planes standing by to evacuate its citizens.
Dozens of foreign diplomats, including United Nations staff, still were awaiting evacuation Saturday by air in Sanaa, airport officials said on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to release the information.
___
Al-Haj reported from Sanaa, Yemen.
Other leaders, including the leaders of Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, obliquely referenced Iran earlier at the opening session of an Arab summit held in Egypt's Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh. They blamed Shiite, non-Arab Iran for meddling in the affairs of Arab nations, with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi saying, without mentioning Iran by name, that it was "spreading its ailment in the body."
Yemeni President Abdel Rabbo Mansour Hadi directly challenged Iran in his remarks. He also called for his supporters to rise up in peaceful protest against the Shiite rebels, known as Houthis. He said the airstrikes staged by Saudi Arabia and its allies against the Houthis must not stop before they surrender and return medium and heavy weapons they looted from army depots across much of the country.
Iran and the Houthis deny that Tehran arms the rebel movement. Officials there had no immediate comment on Hadi's remarks.
Hadi fled Yemen earlier this week, making his way to Saudi Arabia after leaving the southern coastal city of Aden in the face of a push into southern Yemen by the Houthis and their allies, including forces loyal to ousted leader Ali Abdullah Saleh.
Also addressing the summit, Saudi Arabia's monarch, King Salman, said the military campaign in Yemen would not stop before security and stability are restored in Yemen.
El-Sissi also endorsed a resolution adopted by Arab foreign ministers on Thursday for the creation of an Arab military force, saying the Arab world was currently facing unprecedented threats.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Press Agency reported Saturday that its navy had evacuated 86 diplomats and others from Aden on Wednesday. It did not identify the nationalities of all those it evacuated in the operation, though it said diplomats from the United Arab Emirates and Qatar were on hand Saturday when those evacuated arrived at a Jiddah naval base.
Pakistan also announced Saturday it had two planes standing by to evacuate its citizens.
Dozens of foreign diplomats, including United Nations staff, still were awaiting evacuation Saturday by air in Sanaa, airport officials said on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorized to release the information.
___
Al-Haj reported from Sanaa, Yemen.
Two Of Madonna's Dancers Re-Create 'Vogue' In Honor Of Iconic Song's 25th Anniversary
It's hard to believe it, but Madonna's seminal smash, "Vogue," was released 25 years ago this month.
Jose Xtravaganza and Salim "Slam" Gauwloos, two dancers who appeared in the iconic "Vogue" video and subsequently toured with Madonna, reunited in Los Angeles to re-create the famed choreography in this short video honoring the anniversary -- and the results are pretty amazing.
Jose Xtravaganza and fellow dancer Luis Camacho Xtravaganza are often credited with introducing Madonna to the Harlem House Ball community which, in turn, inspired her to write the song and feature the dance style in her music videos and tours.
Below, watch Madonna's original "Vogue" video, featuring Jose and Slam, from 1990:
Jose Xtravaganza and Salim "Slam" Gauwloos, two dancers who appeared in the iconic "Vogue" video and subsequently toured with Madonna, reunited in Los Angeles to re-create the famed choreography in this short video honoring the anniversary -- and the results are pretty amazing.
Jose Xtravaganza and fellow dancer Luis Camacho Xtravaganza are often credited with introducing Madonna to the Harlem House Ball community which, in turn, inspired her to write the song and feature the dance style in her music videos and tours.
Below, watch Madonna's original "Vogue" video, featuring Jose and Slam, from 1990:
Beginners' Workshop Series Continues in Lodi
San Joaquin Genealogical Society returns to the Lodi Public Library this Saturday with our next session on the beginners' genealogy series, "Grow Your Family Tree." The afternoon session, covering the basics of pursuing your own family history, will be held in the library's Community Room. In addition, the topic for this session will include how to find free resources online, and will introduce the Society's new program, First Families of San Joaquin.
Lodi Public Library is located at 201 West Locust Street in Lodi, California. Come join us this Saturday afternoon, from 2:00 to 4:00, and explore which resources will help you with your own family tree.
For more information, email the Lodi Public Library or call them at (209) 333-5503.
Friday, March 27, 2015
The Huffington Post Entertainment Is Hiring An Editorial Director
Location: New York City
Position Type: Full Time
About the Role:
The Huffington Post is seeking an Editorial Director to lead our multimedia-first approach to entertainment coverage. The ideal candidate will have vast knowledge and working experience in the realm of entertainment, which encompasses everything from celebrity and comedy to arts and sports. The candidate will have a profound understanding of what the media landscape lacks in those content areas and seek to fill them with quality, shareable content. Experience in new, creative ways of story telling -- video, graphics, GIFS, photos, etc. -- is a must, as are ideas about how to distribute multimedia content on emerging social platforms.
Requirements for Success:
* Have at least five years of editing experience
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How To Hit The 'Reset' Button If Your Mother/Daughter Dynamic Is Messed Up (VIDEO)
Amber, 24, says her mom Julie failed her as a parent. "At this point, I am through with her unless I see some drastic change but I don't think she's capable of doing that," says Amber, who claims she suffered years of verbal, emotional and physical abuse.
But Julie says she's never laid a hand on Amber — except in self-defense — and that her daughter tends to play the victim. "She just doesn't seem to want to own up to anything," says Julie. "We're all wrong sometimes. I don't know why she can't just step up and say, 'I screwed up.'"
Watch the video above as Dr. Phil draws comparisons between the two women — a symmetry that may help them move forward and bury the hatchet.
Need Dr. Phil's help in your life? Share your story here.
Like Dr. Phil | Follow Dr. Phil | Be on the Show
But Julie says she's never laid a hand on Amber — except in self-defense — and that her daughter tends to play the victim. "She just doesn't seem to want to own up to anything," says Julie. "We're all wrong sometimes. I don't know why she can't just step up and say, 'I screwed up.'"
Watch the video above as Dr. Phil draws comparisons between the two women — a symmetry that may help them move forward and bury the hatchet.
Need Dr. Phil's help in your life? Share your story here.
Like Dr. Phil | Follow Dr. Phil | Be on the Show Thursday, March 26, 2015
Bowe Bergdahl Charged; What is Desertion?
Once welcomed home like a hero, Army Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl is now being labeled a deserter. Sergeant Bergdahl returned home last year after spending nearly five years in captivity with the Taliban. Bergdahl was released in exchange for the release...
Germanwings co-pilot intentionally crashed plane, investigator says
Debris from the Airbus A320 that crashed into a mountainside in the French Alps on Tuesday, killing all 150 people on board. Eerie detail from the final minutes of the flight were released today by French investigators. Photo by Thomas Koehler/photothek.net/Pool/via Reuters
The co-pilot of the Germanwings plane that smashed into the French Alps Tuesday deliberately crashed the plane, a French prosecutor said in a press conference Thursday.
Marseille public prosecutor Brice Robin said that the 28-year-old co-pilot, whom he identified as German citizen Andreas Lubitz, had locked the pilot out of the cockpit after he had left to use the bathroom, and pressed a button that triggered the plane to descend. “The intention was to destroy this plane,” Robin said. He reiterated that there is no indication of terrorism.
The Airbus A-320 was carrying 144 passengers and six crew members when it went down. There were no survivors.
The Guardian reporter Kim Willsher, who is in Paris, wrote of the disturbing details that emerged from Robin’s press conference:
Robin said the co-pilot could be heard breathing right up until the point of impact, suggesting he had not lost consciousness. However, he failed to respond to increasingly desperate calls from the commander trying to break down the cockpit door, or to air traffic controllers.
The Guardian is following the story in a live blog.
The passenger jet was flying from Barcelona, Spain, to Dusseldorf, Germany, before it crashed in the mountainous region of southern France.
Germanwings is a budget airline owned by Lufthansa, which is Germany’s biggest airline.
The post Germanwings co-pilot intentionally crashed plane, investigator says appeared first on PBS NewsHour.
One Of The World's Largest Collections Of Pin-Up Girls Goes On View
The pin-up girl is a very particular type of woman. She's an All-American super babe, known for dressing up -- and sometimes spilling out -- but never enough to warrant a censor bar. She's flirtatious yet innocent, erotic but not sexual, mischievous and still sweet.
"Her sexiness is natural and uncontrived, and her exposure is always accidental," Dian Hanson, author of The Art of the Pin-Up explained to The Huffington Post. "A fishhook catches her bikini top, an outboard motor shreds her skirt, a spunky puppy trips her up or the ever-present playful breeze lifts her hem, revealing stocking tops and garter straps, but never the whole enchilada."
Gil Elvgren, Low Down Feelings, Oil on Canvas
The history of the pin-up girl stems back to the time of World War I, when President Woodrow Wilson formed the Division of Pictorial Publicity to create visual stimuli to persuade men to join the war effort. Turned out pin-up girls were quite convincing. It wasn't long before the wavy haired, rosy cheeked, buxom women were popping up on calendars, advertisements and magazine covers all over the country.
The pin-up girl's popularity continued to rise throughout World War II, when soldiers abroad would hang up an image of a pretty lady to remind them of what they were fighting for. Yet some enthusiasts claim the origins of the pin-up extend even further back, debatably to the invention of the bicycle in the early 1800s. For practical reasons, women began sporting pants for the first time soon after, drawing attention to legs like never before and making mainstream women's fashion at once more masculine and more erotic.
To suffragists, the bike was the "freedom machine," releasing women of their ties to a male escort. To the male gaze, the mode of transportation was a prop upon which models sat, prompting a whole new genre of painted and illustrated muses.
Alberto Vargas, Brunette with Blue Flowers, Watercolor, crayon & graphite on paper
The mythic history of the pin-up is certainly filled with contradictions. On the one hand, objectifying scantily clad women for male pleasure is hardly revolutionary. (Cue hundreds of years of art history.) And yet the pin-up movement has an arguably feminist angle as well, emboldening women with a distinct sense of sexuality, agency and liberation from norms. "We find that the pin-up provided a model through which women could construct themselves as icons of contemporary womanhood," art history professor Maria Elena Buszek writes. "Through the genre, women were representing themselves as at once both conventionally feminine and transgressively aware of her own power and potential for agency on levels both personal and political."
Gallerist Louis Meisel has had a soft spot for the kitsch subculture since childhood, growing up to become the leading dealer and collector of original pin-up artworks. His stash includes oil paintings, watercolors and pastels, each managing to capture the softness of a beautiful woman's face. Some are classic depictions of the girl next door, while others, depicting eroticized visions by the sea or floating in mid-air, seem almost surreal. His works are currently on view at his gallery, in an appropriately named exhibition, "The Great American Pin-Up Girl Returns."
If you're looking for a primer on pin-up culture, curious to see what sexy meant in 1950, or just want to see some beautiful and airbrushed ladies in themed garter belts, enjoy a preview of the show below. For a more in-depth history of how it all went down, check out our timeline here.
"The Great American Pin-Up Returns" will show at Louis K. Meisel Gallery in New York City between April 2 and May 2, 2015.
"Her sexiness is natural and uncontrived, and her exposure is always accidental," Dian Hanson, author of The Art of the Pin-Up explained to The Huffington Post. "A fishhook catches her bikini top, an outboard motor shreds her skirt, a spunky puppy trips her up or the ever-present playful breeze lifts her hem, revealing stocking tops and garter straps, but never the whole enchilada."
The history of the pin-up girl stems back to the time of World War I, when President Woodrow Wilson formed the Division of Pictorial Publicity to create visual stimuli to persuade men to join the war effort. Turned out pin-up girls were quite convincing. It wasn't long before the wavy haired, rosy cheeked, buxom women were popping up on calendars, advertisements and magazine covers all over the country.
The pin-up girl's popularity continued to rise throughout World War II, when soldiers abroad would hang up an image of a pretty lady to remind them of what they were fighting for. Yet some enthusiasts claim the origins of the pin-up extend even further back, debatably to the invention of the bicycle in the early 1800s. For practical reasons, women began sporting pants for the first time soon after, drawing attention to legs like never before and making mainstream women's fashion at once more masculine and more erotic.
To suffragists, the bike was the "freedom machine," releasing women of their ties to a male escort. To the male gaze, the mode of transportation was a prop upon which models sat, prompting a whole new genre of painted and illustrated muses.
The mythic history of the pin-up is certainly filled with contradictions. On the one hand, objectifying scantily clad women for male pleasure is hardly revolutionary. (Cue hundreds of years of art history.) And yet the pin-up movement has an arguably feminist angle as well, emboldening women with a distinct sense of sexuality, agency and liberation from norms. "We find that the pin-up provided a model through which women could construct themselves as icons of contemporary womanhood," art history professor Maria Elena Buszek writes. "Through the genre, women were representing themselves as at once both conventionally feminine and transgressively aware of her own power and potential for agency on levels both personal and political."
Gallerist Louis Meisel has had a soft spot for the kitsch subculture since childhood, growing up to become the leading dealer and collector of original pin-up artworks. His stash includes oil paintings, watercolors and pastels, each managing to capture the softness of a beautiful woman's face. Some are classic depictions of the girl next door, while others, depicting eroticized visions by the sea or floating in mid-air, seem almost surreal. His works are currently on view at his gallery, in an appropriately named exhibition, "The Great American Pin-Up Girl Returns."
If you're looking for a primer on pin-up culture, curious to see what sexy meant in 1950, or just want to see some beautiful and airbrushed ladies in themed garter belts, enjoy a preview of the show below. For a more in-depth history of how it all went down, check out our timeline here.
"The Great American Pin-Up Returns" will show at Louis K. Meisel Gallery in New York City between April 2 and May 2, 2015.
Really, High-Yield Outperforms When Rates Rise, Finds Fridson
It’s well understood by investors that high-yield bonds ought to have higher returns than investment grade bonds in a rising rate environment. This isn’t just due to their lower duration, or sensitivity to interest rate moves, finds Marty Fridson, chief investment officer of Lehmann, Livian, Fridson Advisors in a new report published by S&P Capital [...]
Slide Sandals Got A Makeover For Summer 2015
Slides were ubiquitous last summer as the sandals of choice slipped the feet of bloggers, editors and models. And hey, we're not complaining -- slides are so comfortable, work with just about any outfit and are synonymous with that minimalist aesthetic we simply adore.
Though the style was everywhere, the options were somewhat limited. Most slides were leather, and pairs featuring different colors and cool fabrics were nearly impossible to find. But now times, they are a changin'. Get prepared to snag sliders in denim, felt, rubber or even faux fur this year. Some pairs come with embellishments, others in trendy metallics and some with chunky platform heels. So no matter your taste, there's a pair sitting on a shelf somewhere just waiting for some summer lovin'.
Behold, 11 pairs of slides that will get you ready for the warm weather ahead.
Though the style was everywhere, the options were somewhat limited. Most slides were leather, and pairs featuring different colors and cool fabrics were nearly impossible to find. But now times, they are a changin'. Get prepared to snag sliders in denim, felt, rubber or even faux fur this year. Some pairs come with embellishments, others in trendy metallics and some with chunky platform heels. So no matter your taste, there's a pair sitting on a shelf somewhere just waiting for some summer lovin'.
Behold, 11 pairs of slides that will get you ready for the warm weather ahead.
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Photos: Nigerians worried about safety, vote-rigging in upcoming elections
A schoolgirl walks past campaign posters in support of Nigeria’s President Goodluck Jonathan along a road in Ikoyi district in Lagos February 13, 2015. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
After a six-week delay, Nigeria will be holding presidential elections on Saturday, and the international community is bracing for possible violence.
In 2011, riots erupted in parts of the country after Goodluck Jonathan of the governing People’s Democratic Party won his first presidential election over his challenger former military ruler Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressive Congress party.
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The upcoming elections are a rematch of sorts with Jonathan seeking a second four-year term and facing a more unified opposition with Buhari at the helm. After Jonathan handily defeated Buhari in 2011’s elections, Saturday’s elections are expected to be among the most competitive in Nigeria’s history, the BBC reported.
Both leading candidates have promised peaceful elections, but “many [Nigerians] believe this won’t hold water,” Lagos-based Reuters photographer Akintunde Akinleye told the PBS NewsHour.
“It could be taken as though it’s just something on the surface,” he said, “but people are praying, hoping that somehow, somehow, somehow Nigeria will pull itself together.”
The post-election violence in 2011 killed more than 800 people, Human Rights Watch said, and displaced tens of thousands of others, as Buhari supporters burned down churches, homes and mosques in protest. And the National Human Rights Commission has said the ramp-up to the elections has seen dozens of people die — considered a worrisome trend because “the pattern and intensity of pre-election violence is atypical of Nigeria’s recent electoral history.”
Earlier this week, President Barack Obama also called on all Nigerians to “peacefully express your views and to reject the voices of those who call for violence.”
A woman sits in a vehicle campaigning for candidates of opposition party All Progressives Congress (APC) during a campaign event in Agege, district of Lagos February 21, 2015. Nigeria’s electoral commission postponed the February 14 presidential election until March 28 due to security concerns. Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country with a half-Christian, half-Muslim population that has deep-seated distrust of the electoral process, even since civilian rule was restored in 1999. Military authorities annulled the 1993 presidential elections.
Akinleye, a Nigerian native, said the Nigerians he spoke to have expressed fear over continued bloodshed by the Islamist militant group known as Boko Haram, corruption that has come to define Nigerian politics and what Akinleye calls “basic human issues” such as addressing electricity shortages.
Brand Director of African Artists Foundation, Wunika Mukan, 31, sits for a portrait in her office in Nigeria’s commercial capital Lagos February 10, 2015. ‘We are on the verge of something great however I feel that we have to get through the storm to get there. Our biggest challenge is corruption and lack of sophistication and leaders that don’t necessarily see the whole picture. I find the postponement of the election to be a bad example for the rest of Nigerians, it tells us that we don’t have to be ready, that we can cheat,’ Mukan said. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
Visual Artist Victor Ehikhamenor, 45, a Christian from Nigeria’s delta region, poses for a portrait in his office at Iganmu district in Nigeria’s commercial capital Lagos January 29, 2015. Ehikhamenor is running a web campaign ‘Vote with ink not blood’ as the elections in Nigeria approach. “History has proven that ink is more affordable than blood, so Nigerian citizens’ blood shouldn’t be cheaper than a bottle of ink. We implore all to remember this simple fact and embrace peace in every corner of our country,” Ehikhamenor said. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
As Nigerians question their government’s ability to address these issues, Akinleye said that the candidates should be waging a campaign of “how.”
“How are you gonna stop corruption? How are you going to improve on education? How are you going to improve the health care system? These are the issues … that people actually want the candidates to address,” he said.
Independent television producer Dan Ikpoyi, 32, a Christian from Nigeria’s delta region, sits for a portrait in a production room at a television station in Lagos January 29, 2015. Ikpoyi feels that both campaigns are creating tension within the population and says he fears for his safety while covering the vote. “The fact that the election was postponed casts a big question mark on the credibility of the election itself. The party in government is indicted in this and it means anything can happen afterwards,” Ikpoyi said. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
Omolade Ogunlusi, 20, a student at the University of Lagos and an ethnic Yoruba Christian, sits in a seminar room at the university campus in Akoka district in Lagos January 28, 2015. “I do not like the election postponement. I am just afraid of everything,” Ogunlusi said. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
Despite distrust among some Nigerians, 82 percent of voters have picked up their ID cards, Reuters reported. And, according to the Pew Research Center, 70 percent of Nigerians have voted in an election and a latest poll from the International Foundation for Electoral Systems found that 79 percent of Nigerians are very or somewhat likely to vote in the presidential election this Saturday.
Akinleye said that even compared to the last election, people believe more than ever that they can actually change the government with their votes.
“There’s this new level of political awareness to the extent that people now realize that, ‘hey, this is democracy,'” he said.
Fashion designer Omobola Omowunmi, 43, an ethnic Yoruba Christian woman, poses for a portrait in the living room of her home in Oregun district in Nigeria’s commercial capital Lagos February 1, 2015. Omowunmi is optimistic that the elections will lift Nigeria from its current economic troubles if they are conducted smoothly. Speaking about the postponement she said: ‘The people at the helm are playing with our lives. We know that these people are trying to rig the election because opinion seems to be tilting towards favouring the opposition party but I pray for a good outcome at the end of the day’. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
Abubakar Kadakinguda, 30, an ethnic Hausa Muslim man from the north, holds a poster campaigning for Nigeria’s former military ruler and presidential candidate for All Progressives Congress (APC) Muhammadu Buhari in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria January 29, 2015. Kadakinguda believes the political challenges in Nigeria, including security issues will be fixed if Buhari becomes the next head of government in the forthcoming elections. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
Entrepreneur Bankole Cardoso, 26, an ethnic Yoruba Christian man, sits for a portrait in his office in the Ebute Meta district of Nigeria’s commercial capital Lagos January 21, 2015. Cardoso, who runs a Lagos taxi business, said that fears of kidnappings increase during elections. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
![Associate Professor Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika, a Christian from Nigeria's delta region, sits for a portrait in her office at the University of Lagos January 26, 2015. "The Boko Haram insurgency did not start today. We have already given out a timetable to the whole world [for] the election. Why postpone it now? The problem is that the postponement may have implications for the tribunal meetings if there are litigations ? However, the fact that they acted within the ambit of the law makes it a legal thing to do. If these six weeks will give them the opportunity to quell the insurgency in Nigeria, it is worth the sacrifice. But if you look at it closely it has heated the polity," Ogwezzy-Ndisika said. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters](http://www.pbs.org/newshour/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/RTR4P5SC.jpg)
Associate Professor Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika, a Christian from Nigeria’s delta region, sits for a portrait in her office at the University of Lagos January 26, 2015. “The Boko Haram insurgency did not start today. We have already given out a timetable to the whole world [for] the election. Why postpone it now? The problem is that the postponement may have implications for the tribunal meetings if there are litigations ? However, the fact that they acted within the ambit of the law makes it a legal thing to do. If these six weeks will give them the opportunity to quell the insurgency in Nigeria, it is worth the sacrifice. But if you look at it closely it has heated the polity,” Ogwezzy-Ndisika said. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
Shoe mender Mutiu Sabitiu, 40, an ethnic Yoruba Muslim, poses for a photograph at his roadside workshop in Beere district in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria January 29, 2015. Sabitiu is indifferent to the elections but hopes the best candidate emerges as president. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye
Latefat Alao, 56, a ethnic Yoruba Muslim woman, waits for customers in front of her in Beere market in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria, January 29, 2015. Much of the grain and wheat traders like Alao sell comes from the north and Boko Haram’s campaign has negatively affected farmers and food markets. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
Michael Chijoke Ano, 21, who is a student and an ethnic Igbo man from Nigeria’s eastern region, waits for customers during a campaign for the governorship candidate Akinwunmi Ambode, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Oworonshoki district in Lagos January 19, 2015. Ano sells party souvenirs to support his education and he hopes that the election is devoid of violence so that his education plans are not affected. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
Afrobeat musician Seun Anikulapo-Kuti, 32, an ethnic Yoruba, poses with his dog on an open terrace at the Fela museum in Lagos February 1, 2015. Anikulapo-Kuti is the son of Nigeria’s music legend Fela Kuti. He believes Boko Haram is not a new kind of revolutionary group but an entity created for some kind of political disturbances in Nigeria. Photo by Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters
The post Photos: Nigerians worried about safety, vote-rigging in upcoming elections appeared first on PBS NewsHour.
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