President Barack Obama Speech on the End of the Combat Mission in Iraq

On Thursday, August 31, 2010 President Barack Obama Speaks to the nation on the End of the Combat Mission in Iraq directly from Oval Office.  If you missed the speech, here is the original transcript including the video posted by The White House Office of the Press Secretary.

8:00 P.M. EDT

     THE PRESIDENT:  Good evening.  Tonight, I’d like to talk to you about the end of our combat mission in Iraq, the ongoing security challenges we face, and the need to rebuild our nation here at home. 

I know this historic moment comes at a time of great uncertainty for many Americans.  We’ve now been through nearly a decade of war.  We’ve endured a long and painful recession.  And sometimes in the midst of these storms, the future that we’re trying to build for our nation — a future of lasting peace and long-term prosperity — may seem beyond our reach.

But this milestone should serve as a reminder to all Americans that the future is ours to shape if we move forward with confidence and commitment.  It should also serve as a message to the world that the United States of America intends to sustain and strengthen our leadership in this young century.


From this desk, seven and a half years ago, President Bush announced the beginning of military operations in Iraq.  Much has changed since that night.  A war to disarm a state became a fight against an insurgency.  Terrorism and sectarian warfare threatened to tear Iraq apart.  Thousands of Americans gave their lives; tens of thousands have been wounded.  Our relations abroad were strained.  Our unity at home was tested.

These are the rough waters encountered during the course of one of America’s longest wars.  Yet there has been one constant amidst these shifting tides.  At every turn, America’s men and women in uniform have served with courage and resolve.  As Commander-in-Chief, I am incredibly proud of their service.  And like all Americans, I’m awed by their sacrifice, and by the sacrifices of their families.


The Americans who have served in Iraq completed every mission they were given.  They defeated a regime that had terrorized its people.  Together with Iraqis and coalition partners who made huge sacrifices of their own, our troops fought block by block to help Iraq seize the chance for a better future.  They shifted tactics to protect the Iraqi people, trained Iraqi Security Forces, and took out terrorist leaders.  Because of our troops and civilians — and because of the resilience of the Iraqi people — Iraq has the opportunity to embrace a new destiny, even though many challenges remain.

So tonight, I am announcing that the American combat mission in Iraq has ended.  Operation Iraqi Freedom is over, and the Iraqi people now have lead responsibility for the security of their country.

     This was my pledge to the American people as a candidate for this office.  Last February, I announced a plan that would bring our combat brigades out of Iraq, while redoubling our efforts to strengthen Iraq’s Security Forces and support its government and people. 

That’s what we’ve done.  We’ve removed nearly 100,000 U.S. troops from Iraq.  We’ve closed or transferred to the Iraqis hundreds of bases.  And we have moved millions of pieces of equipment out of Iraq.


This completes a transition to Iraqi responsibility for their own security.  U.S. troops pulled out of Iraq’s cities last summer, and Iraqi forces have moved into the lead with considerable skill and commitment to their fellow citizens.  Even as Iraq continues to suffer terrorist attacks, security incidents have been near the lowest on record since the war began.  And Iraqi forces have taken the fight to al Qaeda, removing much of its leadership in Iraqi-led operations.


This year also saw Iraq hold credible elections that drew a strong turnout.  A caretaker administration is in place as Iraqis form a government based on the results of that election.  Tonight, I encourage Iraq’s leaders to move forward with a sense of urgency to form an inclusive government that is just, representative, and accountable to the Iraqi people.  And when that government is in place, there should be no doubt:  The Iraqi people will have a strong partner in the United States.  Our combat mission is ending, but our commitment to Iraq’s future is not.

Going forward, a transitional force of U.S. troops will remain in Iraq with a different mission:  advising and assisting Iraq’s Security Forces, supporting Iraqi troops in targeted counterterrorism missions, and protecting our civilians.  Consistent with our agreement with the Iraqi government, all U.S. troops will leave by the end of next year.  As our military draws down, our dedicated civilians — diplomats, aid workers, and advisors — are moving into the lead to support Iraq as it strengthens its government, resolves political disputes, resettles those displaced by war, and builds ties with the region and the world.  That’s a message that Vice President Biden is delivering to the Iraqi people through his visit there today.


     This new approach reflects our long-term partnership with Iraq — one based upon mutual interest and mutual respect.  Of course, violence will not end with our combat mission.  Extremists will continue to set off bombs, attack Iraqi civilians and try to spark sectarian strife.  But ultimately, these terrorists will fail to achieve their goals.  Iraqis are a proud people.  They have rejected sectarian war, and they have no interest in endless destruction.  They understand that, in the end, only Iraqis can resolve their differences and police their streets.  Only Iraqis can build a democracy within their borders.  What America can do, and will do, is provide support for the Iraqi people as both a friend and a partner.

     Ending this war is not only in Iraq’s interest — it’s in our own.  The United States has paid a huge price to put the future of Iraq in the hands of its people.  We have sent our young men and women to make enormous sacrifices in Iraq, and spent vast resources abroad at a time of tight budgets at home.  We’ve persevered because of a belief we share with the Iraqi people — a belief that out of the ashes of war, a new beginning could be born in this cradle of civilization.  Through this remarkable chapter in the history of the United States and Iraq, we have met our responsibility.  Now, it’s time to turn the page.

As we do, I’m mindful that the Iraq war has been a contentious issue at home.  Here, too, it’s time to turn the page.  This afternoon, I spoke to former President George W. Bush.  It’s well known that he and I disagreed about the war from its outset.  Yet no one can doubt President Bush’s support for our troops, or his love of country and commitment to our security.  As I’ve said, there were patriots who supported this war, and patriots who opposed it.  And all of us are united in appreciation for our servicemen and women, and our hopes for Iraqis’ future.

     The greatness of our democracy is grounded in our ability to move beyond our differences, and to learn from our experience as we confront the many challenges ahead.  And no challenge is more essential to our security than our fight against al Qaeda.

     Americans across the political spectrum supported the use of force against those who attacked us on 9/11.  Now, as we approach our 10th year of combat in Afghanistan, there are those who are understandably asking tough questions about our mission there.  But we must never lose sight of what’s at stake.  As we speak, al Qaeda continues to plot against us, and its leadership remains anchored in the border regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan.  We will disrupt, dismantle and defeat al Qaeda, while preventing Afghanistan from again serving as a base for terrorists.  And because of our drawdown in Iraq, we are now able to apply the resources necessary to go on offense.  In fact, over the last 19 months, nearly a dozen al Qaeda leaders — and hundreds of al Qaeda’s extremist allies — have been killed or captured around the world.

Within Afghanistan, I’ve ordered the deployment of additional troops who — under the command of General David Petraeus — are fighting to break the Taliban’s momentum. 
As with the surge in Iraq, these forces will be in place for a limited time to provide space for the Afghans to build their capacity and secure their own future.  But, as was the case in Iraq, we can’t do for Afghans what they must ultimately do for themselves.  That’s why we’re training Afghan Security Forces and supporting a political resolution to Afghanistan’s problems.  And next August, we will begin a transition to Afghan responsibility.  The pace of our troop reductions will be determined by conditions on the ground, and our support for Afghanistan will endure.  But make no mistake:  This transition will begin — because open-ended war serves neither our interests nor the Afghan people’s.

     Indeed, one of the lessons of our effort in Iraq is that American influence around the world is not a function of military force alone.  We must use all elements of our power — including our diplomacy, our economic strength, and the power of America’s example — to secure our interests and stand by our allies.  And we must project a vision of the future that’s based not just on our fears, but also on our hopes — a vision that recognizes the real dangers that exist around the world,
but also the limitless possibilities of our time.

     Today, old adversaries are at peace, and emerging democracies are potential partners.  New markets for our goods stretch from Asia to the Americas.  A new push for peace in the Middle East will begin here tomorrow.  Billions of young people want to move beyond the shackles of poverty and conflict.  As the leader of the free world, America will do more than just defeat on the battlefield those who offer hatred and destruction — we will also lead among those who are willing to work together to expand freedom and opportunity for all people.

     Now, that effort must begin within our own borders.  Throughout our history, America has been willing to bear the burden of promoting liberty and human dignity overseas, understanding its links to our own liberty and security.  But we have also understood that our nation’s strength and influence abroad must be firmly anchored in our prosperity at home.  And the bedrock of that prosperity must be a growing middle class.

     Unfortunately, over the last decade, we’ve not done what’s necessary to shore up the foundations of our own prosperity.  We spent a trillion dollars at war, often financed by borrowing from overseas.  This, in turn, has short-changed investments in our own people, and contributed to record deficits.  For too long, we have put off tough decisions on everything from our manufacturing base to our energy policy to education reform.  As a result, too many middle-class families find themselves working harder for less, while our nation’s long-term competitiveness is put at risk.

     And so at this moment, as we wind down the war in Iraq, we must tackle those challenges at home with as much energy, and grit, and sense of common purpose as our men and women in uniform who have served abroad.  They have met every test that they faced.  Now, it’s our turn.  Now, it’s our responsibility to honor them by coming together, all of us, and working to secure the dream that so many generations have fought for — the dream that a better life awaits anyone who is willing to work for it and reach for it.

     Our most urgent task is to restore our economy, and put the millions of Americans who have lost their jobs back to work.  To strengthen our middle class, we must give all our children the education they deserve, and all our workers the skills that they need to compete in a global economy.  We must jumpstart industries that create jobs, and end our dependence on foreign oil.  We must unleash the innovation that allows new products to roll off our assembly lines, and nurture the ideas that spring from our entrepreneurs.  This will be difficult.  But in the days to come, it must be our central mission as a people, and my central responsibility as President.

     Part of that responsibility is making sure that we honor our commitments to those who have served our country with such valor.  As long as I am President, we will maintain the finest fighting force that the world has ever known, and we will do whatever it takes to serve our veterans as well as they have served us.  This is a sacred trust.  That’s why we’ve already made one of the largest increases in funding for veterans in decades.  We’re treating the signature wounds of today’s wars — post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury — while providing the health care and benefits that all of our veterans have earned.  And we’re funding a Post-9/11 GI Bill that helps our veterans and their families pursue the dream of a college education.  Just as the GI Bill helped those who fought World War II — including my grandfather — become the backbone of our middle class, so today’s servicemen and women must have the chance to apply their gifts to expand the American economy.  Because part of ending a war responsibly is standing by those who have fought it.

     Two weeks ago, America’s final combat brigade in Iraq — the Army’s Fourth Stryker Brigade — journeyed home in the pre-dawn darkness.  Thousands of soldiers and hundreds of vehicles made the trip from Baghdad, the last of them passing into Kuwait in the early morning hours.  Over seven years before, American troops and coalition partners had fought their way across similar highways, but this time no shots were fired.  It was just a convoy of brave Americans, making their way home.

     Of course, the soldiers left much behind.  Some were teenagers when the war began.  Many have served multiple tours of duty, far from families who bore a heroic burden of their own, enduring the absence of a husband’s embrace or a mother’s kiss.  Most painfully, since the war began, 55 members of the Fourth Stryker Brigade made the ultimate sacrifice — part of over 4,400 Americans who have given their lives in Iraq.  As one staff sergeant said, “I know that to my brothers in arms who fought and died, this day would probably mean a lot.”

     Those Americans gave their lives for the values that have lived in the hearts of our people for over two centuries.  Along with nearly 1.5 million Americans who have served in Iraq, they fought in a faraway place for people they never knew.  They stared into the darkest of human creations — war — and helped the Iraqi people seek the light of peace.

     In an age without surrender ceremonies, we must earn victory through the success of our partners and the strength of our own nation.  Every American who serves joins an unbroken line of heroes that stretches from Lexington to Gettysburg; from Iwo Jima to Inchon; from Khe Sanh to Kandahar — Americans who have fought to see that the lives of our children are better than our own.  Our troops are the steel in our ship of state.  And though our nation may be travelling through rough waters, they give us confidence that our course is true, and that beyond the pre-dawn darkness, better days lie ahead.

     Thank you.  May God bless you.  And may God bless the United States of America, and all who serve her.

                             END                8:19 P.M. EDT

Editor’s Note: President Barack Obama photo, video and speech courtesy of The White House Office of the Press Secretary.

Source: The White House Office of the Press Secretary

http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2010/08/31/remarks-president-address-nation-end-combat-operations-iraq

Lily Tomlin and Friends Gather In Beverly Hills To Help Billy The Elephant‏

By Songirl Sez, Special for Diversity News

Legendary comedienne Lily Tomlin appeared with some of today’s hottest leading comedy acts on Saturday, August 7, 2010 in Beverly Hills, CA at the Lavinthal estate for a fundraiser held by Voice For The Animals to raise funds for Billy the elephant, who has been in solitary confinement at the L.A. zoo for over 20 years.

Held on the sprawling estate grounds, the event went from 5-9pm and was emce’d by Bruce Vilanch, who introduced an all star line consisting of fellow comedians Orny Adams, Elayne Boosler and Rick Overton. A special speech of support by Los Angeles City councilman Tony Cardenas, before Lily graced the stage at the mansion. Tax deductible tickets ranged from $100-$350 and included cocktails and fine vegan food. An auction continued after the show while desert was served.

Celebrity supporters for the evening (although some unable to attend) included James Cromwell, Kevin Nealon, Bernie Williams, Georja Umano, Mariana Tosca, Fawn and Ashley Bell. There were a host of well known animal advocates present including Patty Shanker, Ed Boks, Bill Dyer, Robin Torme’, Bryan Monell, Daphne Dimitriadi, Linda Grey Heitz, Marjorie Hirsch Loeb, Sandra Mohr and Kat Kramer.


“Lily and all of our guests understand the significance of the lawsuit, not only to save Billy from what inevitably will be an early death, but to send an even louder message,” said Melya Kaplan, founder and executive director of VFTA. She added “These magnificent, sensitive and loving creatures belong in the wild and if they’ve already been brought here, then they belong in wide-open sanctuaries designed to meet their physical and emotional needs.”

VFTA’s lawsuit originated in 2007 and was filed on behalf of two plaintiffs including the late actor Robert Culp. The suit charges the Los Angeles zoo with cruel and unusual punishment of elephants (there have been 14 elephant deaths in the zoo’s history, two in the past four years) and seeks to shut down the $42 million planned elephant exhibit the city council approved in January of 2009. It was the second time the council voted in approval of the exhibit in light of sufficient evidence that proves the care captive elephants receive constitutes civil and criminal abuse under California law. After a series of motions and appeals, the Court of Appeals finally ruled the case could go to trial.

 ”It would be a much nicer educational process for children to visit animals in sanctuaries and see how animals thrive in their wild habitat, rather than living in a zoo where animals don’t live, the actually die.” said Tracy and Robin Torme party guests.

Kaplan concluded “Lily has been instrumental from the start in helping us bring this issue to light. She loves elephants and wants Billy to go to a place where he can roam free on many acres with other elephants-our lawsuit against the Los Angeles zoo is scheduled to go to trial November 2nd.”

About Billy the elephant and why so many people gathered to help him:
Billy was born in 1985 and has been in solitary confinement since 1989 at the L.A. zoo. He was caught in the wild and forcibly taken from his native home of Malaysia, as part of a trade between the L.A. Zoo and the Malaysian Game Department. Billy lives on approximately one-quarter acre at L.A. Zoo. In the wild, elephants can walk 30 miles in a day. There are roughly 640 acres in one mile.

With no other elephants near him, Billy lives an unnatural, solitary life at the Zoo. While male elephants are often kept separate from other elephants in zoos, in the wild males can display social connections, residing in bachelor herds or frequenting areas with female elephants, sometimes moving from family to family. In India, younger bulls join with older bulls to crop raid.

For many years Billy has displayed stereotypic behavior in the form of repetitive head bobbing that goes on for extended periods of time. Stereotypic behavior is often viewed as an indicator of poor welfare, caused by factors such as restriction of movement, size of enclosure, social isolation, and lack of complexity in the physical environment. Billy has experienced all of these factors at the L.A. Zoo. In fact, Billy was routinely chained each night, likely from the time of his arrival at L.A. Zoo in 1989 until 1994, for approximately 12 to 14 hours each night. It was during this period that a keeper reportedly physically abused Billy by using electric shock on him.

Experts state that stereotypic behavior can lead to foot problems such as nail cracks (which Billy already has), and abscesses and abrasions to the sole of the foot. Foot-related problems are one of the leading causes of euthanasia in captive elephants in the United States.

If you would like more information on Billy or A Voice For Animals, please visit http://vftafoundation.org/ or http://www.helpbilly.org/

U.S. District Court Judge Vaughn Walker Struck Proposition 8 Down, but Marriage Still On Hold

The controversial Proposition 8 was overturned on Wednesday, August 4, 2010 by U.S. District Court Judge Vaughn Walker who ruled Proposition 8 is unconstitutional.

 Proposition 8 was passed on November 4, 2008 by CA Voters with 52.1% againts 47.9% with 94.6% precincts.


“It has been over five years since I voted to place same-sex marriage in the Massachusetts Democratic Party Platform when I was a delegate at the Democratic Convention. Today’s decision by Judge Walker of the Federal District Court to overturn Proposition 8 now indicates that we are on the verge of having marriage equality from coast to coast. Though there is a long road ahead of us to the U.S. Supreme Court, this ruling is an important win for the families involved, the entire LGBT community, and for all of those who sacrificed their time, energy, and even their lives to promote a nation where everyone can be treated equally under the law. This rally in West Hollywood today has been an exhilarating event and I am proud to be in the company of so many who have done so much for the LGBT community.” said Dr. John Carvalho, Political Action Committee, Human Rights Campaign.

Court documents states “Proposition 8 fails to advance any rational basis in singling out gay men and lesbians for denial of a marriage license. Indeed, the evidence shows Proposition 8 does nothing more than enshrine in the California Constitution the notion that oppositesex couples are superior to same-sex couples. Because California has no interest in discriminating against gay men and lesbians, and because Proposition 8 prevents California from fulfilling its constitutional obligation to provide marriages on an equal basis, the court concludes that Proposition 8 is unconstitutional.
Plaintiffs have demonstrated by overwhelming evidence that Proposition 8 violates their due process and equal protection rights and that they will continue to suffer these constitutional violations until state officials cease enforcement of Proposition 8. California is able to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, as it has already issued 18,000 marriage licenses to samesex couples and has not suffered any demonstrated harm as a result, see FF 64-66; moreover, California officials have chosen not to defend Proposition 8 in these proceedings.



Because Proposition 8 is unconstitutional under both the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses, the court orders entry of judgment permanently enjoining its enforcement; prohibiting the official defendants from applying or enforcing Proposition 8 and directing the official defendants that all persons under their control or supervision shall not apply or enforce Proposition 8.”
The clerk is DIRECTED to enter judgment without bond in favor of plaintiffs and plaintiff-intervenors and against defendants and defendant-intervenors pursuant to FRCP 58.
IT IS SO ORDERED. VAUGHN R WALKER, United States District Chief Judge.

Please click to view the originals Proposition 8 Ruling Documents

Prop 8 Ruling Documents

Also click to view the Temporary Ruling Document from the Judge.

Temporary stay – Marryage

In Defense Of Animals – A Night of Storytelling Benefits the Animals of Gulf Oil Spill

By JR, Special for Diversity News

On Friday, July 30, 2010 In Defense Of Animals held a fundraiser at The Strange in Los Angeles, CA from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

The event entitled “Story Time” (A night of storytelling) raised funds to assist IDA with it’s plight to help the innocent animals who fell victim of the Gulf Oil Spill.

Hosted by Actress Elaine Hendrix, the evening consisted of a silent auction, raffle tickets, drinks, h’orderves and inspirational, funny and sometimes tear jerking stories and song. There were appearances onstage by Debra Wilson, Scotlund Haisley (President of IDA), Gina La Piana, Actress Daisy Eagan, Actress Melinda Hill, Laura House, Maggie Rowe, Charlie Schlatter, Morgan Sheppard and Larry Sullivan.

Other notables in attendance were award winning director Shannon Keith, actress/musician Traci Dinwiddie, actress, hit recording artist/songwriter Fawn, Gene Blalock of The Faded and several well respected animal rights activists and rescuers.

100% of the proceeds benefitted In Defense of Animals on behalf of the animals devastated by the Gulf oil spill. To make a donation directly, visit http://www.idausa.org


About IDA: Their mission is to end animal exploitation, cruelty, and abuse by protecting and advocating for the rights, welfare, and habitats of animals, as well as to raise their status beyond mere property, commodities, or things. In Defense of Animals is a registered 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization.

Fundraisers Help ARME To Eliminate Animal Suffering‏

By JR, Special for Diversity News  

Two fundraisers benefiting ARME (Animal Rescue, Media and Education) were held last week in the Los Angeles, CA area.

On Thursday July 22, 2010 the Veggie Grill in West Hollywood gave 50% of their food sales to Arme and on Sunday July 25, 2010 there was a sale at the Beverly Grand Hotel in North Hollywood, with 15% of proceeds benefiting the foundation.  

Arme was founded by award-winning Director and animal rights lawyer Shannon Keith. Shannon has recently won some impressive accolades for her Documentary “Skin Trade.” (1st Place Best Documentary LA Movie Awards, 1st Place Best Director LA Movie Awards, The Indie Fest: Award of Merit: Feature Documentary and 2010 Critical Animal Studies Awards-Critical Animal Studies Media Of The Year). 


The mission of ARME is to eliminate the suffering of all animals. ARME rescues unwanted and homeless animals as well as educates the public about the vast extent of suffering endured in our society.  Through it’s actions and words, ARME advances the freedom of all animals.

To find out more about getting involved with ARME go to http://www.arme.tv

Editor’s Note: Congratulations to this group for speaking up on behalf of the animals.
Photos (C) 2010 FFD Images for Diversity News. All Rights Are Reserved.

USA President Barack Obama Signed The Unemployment Insurance Extension

After long battle with the Republicans vs the Democrats, the Senate and the House approved an extension of the Unemployment Assistance for two and a half million of Americans the lost their jobs due to the recession.

You know the Republicans did not wanted to approve this bill and the USA President with Democrats were fighting to help the American people.

On Thursday, July 22, 2010 the USA President Barack Obama Signed The Unemployment Insurance Extension Act the will last until November 2010.

Here is what  Jesse Lee of the White House posted on their online blog on July 22, 2010.
Yesterday, at long last the Senate passed an extension of unemployment insurance, not only the decent thing to do but one of the most effective ways to boost our economy, as Lawrence Summers, Chair of the National Economic Council, explained. The President has pressured the partisan minority holding it up relentlessly on behalf of those who desperately needed the helping hand, and applauded Congress for overcoming that obstruction in the statement below and today sign he signed the legislation in the Oval Office. This was the President’s statement:

“Today, I signed the unemployment insurance extension to restore desperately needed assistance to two and a half million Americans who lost their jobs in the recession. After a partisan minority used procedural tactics to block the authorization of this assistance three separate times over the past weeks, Americans who are fighting to find a good job and support their families will finally get the support they need to get back on their feet during these tough economic times. Now it’s time for Congress to act on more proposals that support our economic recovery, including passing critical aid to our states and support to small businesses. Small businesses are the engine of job growth, and measures to cut their taxes and make lending available should not be held hostage to partisan tactics like those that unconscionably held up unemployment insurance.”


The White House hope to seek another extension after this one is over. The Associated Press quoted Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif who said “Unemployment benefits protect those who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own but would lead to more jobs, higher wages and a stronger economy for all Americans.” She concluded “The money will be spent immediately on necessity, injecting demand into the economy, creating jobs.”


In California almost half of million of people are unemployed and per EDD (Employment Development Department) website here is what they wrote:

On Thursday, July 22, 2010, President Obama signed federal legislation authorizing further access to federal unemployment extension benefits. States are now allowed to once again start filing federal unemployment extension claims. Since early June, more than 400,000 people in California have experienced a disruption in extension benefits. Until now, they were prevented from moving into any further tier of extension benefits after their current claim ran out.

This new legislation restores access to federal extension benefits retroactive to June 2, 2010, and extends that access through November 30, 2010. It does not provide any additional benefits to the current maximum of up to 99 weeks of unemployment benefits. Unemployed individuals may be eligible for assistance to meet basic needs as well as other services such as health care, counseling, employment and training assistance. Read the Assistance for Unemployed California Residentsflyer for more information.

EDD stands ready to respond quickly to the reauthorization of extension benefits. Staff will be working through the weekend to expedite processing of retroactive benefits.

Impact for FED-ED Extension Customers
About 145,000 of our customers affected are those who were collecting on the separate extension called the FED-ED extension in California, but could not continue because under the previous law the FED-ED program ended.

EDD has been advising these customers to continue submitting completed continued claim forms in the event Congress took further action on the extensions. For those who have done so, EDD should be able to start mailing checks to eligible claimants by next week.
For those who have not submitted claim forms, EDD will be issuing forms next week so eligible claimants can certify for further FED-ED benefits. Once a properly completed claim form is received, payment can be issued for eligible customers within just a few days.
Retroactive benefits can not be paid in one lump sum, but rather in two-week increments. Checks will be issued in succession dating back to periods of eligibility from June 13, 2010, forward for each week a properly completed claim form is received.
Impact for all Other Affected Customers
The Department has been maintaining a list of the remaining 255,000 of our affected customers. These are customers who ran out of either a regular UI claim or one of the four tiers of federal extension claims over the last several weeks. Some of these claimants have already received claim forms in the event Congress took further action. EDD will automatically file the next level of extension claim for the remainder of these customers who meet the eligibility criteria for extended benefit claims. There is no need to contact the Department at this time. Staff will be working throughout the weekend so claim forms can be mailed to eligible individuals next week.

Once customers complete and mail back the first claim form, they can expect to receive further claim forms in rapid succession over the next few weeks to complete quickly and send back to EDD. The Department will issue checks for eligible weeks of unemployment until we are caught up on all retroactive weeks of benefits on these claims.
Retroactive benefits can not be paid in one lump sum, but rather in two-week increments. As soon as each properly completed claim form is received EDD should be able to process payment within just a few days for all eligible claimants who have remained unemployed and able, available and looking for work.
Any unemployment customer who was not affected by the temporary lapse in extension benefits should now be able to avoid any future disruption in extension benefits until the new filing deadline of November 30, 2010. The EDD will resume automatically filing the next level of extension claim for any customer who runs out of their regular state unemployment benefits or one of the four tiers of extension benefits. Continuing benefits will always be dependent on continuing to meet all UI eligibility requirements.
No Impact for Customers who have Run Out of Maximum Benefits
The new federal legislation does not have an effect on the more than 150,000 individuals in California who have already run out of the maximum amount of extension benefits available. That maximum remains up to 99 weeks of benefits. At this time, Congress is not considering adding any more weeks of benefits to the federal extension program.

Other Aspects of New Federal Legislation
While the newly approved legislation restores access to federal extension benefits, the new bill does not continue the subsidy for COBRA health coverage.
It also does not allow for the $25 federal stimulus payment added to each week of unemployment benefits for any new regular claim filed after May 23, 2010. For any existing claims already receiving the extra $25 payments, those payments can continue until the customer runs out of benefits or until the week-ending December 11, 2010, whichever comes first.

In another note from EDD (California’s Employment Development Department), they announced in a press release on June 2, 2010 the they have selected Bank of America to Initiate Electronic Benefit Payments benefits in California for state unemployment, disability, and paid family leave effective September 2010.

 


For more information visit CA Unemployment website at http://www.edd.ca.gov/ & The White House http://www.whitehouse.gov/

Sources: http://www.whitehouse.gov/, http://www.ap.org & http://www.edd.ca.gov/

Note: Photo President Barack Obama signs the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2010 in the Oval Office, July 22, 2010. (Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson)


Editor’s Note: We have keeping an eye on this issue and watching the “Republicans” how they only care about them and do not care about the American people. A least the “Democrats” are more humans and they give back to community by helping and delivering their political promess. Next time when a “Republican” is asking you to vote for them, please take a minute to think TWISE because they only want power and money and your vote will help them get them but they will forget about you. Also you know the EDD staff will try to avoid for all you to get help, please ask to speak with the Director of EDD and feel free to use media outlets for unfair treatment. (Please feel free to leave your comments and no bad language).

Over 300 People Protest The Circus with Actress Olivia Munn At The Staples Center

By Songirl Sez, Special for Diversity News

The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus returned to Los Angeles this week beginning with a pre-dawn parade of Asian elephants from Union Station on Tuesday, July 13, 2020 to the Staples Center.  to open the Circus on Wednesday, July 14, 2010.

Shows for the Circus ran Wednesday, July 14 to through Sunday, July 18, 2010.

Animal rights activists, members of In Defense of Animals, Animal Acres, Last Chance for Animals, Peta, and several Entertainment Industry personalities including Actress Olivia Munn, Actress Shira Scott, Recording Artist Gene Blalock of The Faded, Recording Artist Fawn,  Fashion Photographer Melissa Schwartz and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, came out in droves (over 300 strong) to protest the Infamous Circus and their treatment of animals. It was estimated to be the largest protest against the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus to date. 

Demonstrators were peaceful, yet strong in their position as they marched, chanted, raised their voices, handed out educational information and stood outside the Staples Center in front of ticket holders in line. Their protests created such a stir, that 4 families decided to ask for ticket refunds once they realized why protesters were so upset. One of the families demanding for their money back said that their children saw all the protesters and asked “Why do they have pictures of the baby elephants tied up? We don’t want to see the baby elephants if they do that.” Another family, smiling after deciding to turn in their tickets stated “It feels good.”
Protesters were calling for a boycott of the Circus based on the disturbing photos that had been turned over to PETA. Several such photos were held by protesters for the crowd to see. PETA is now using these photos to file a complaint with the USDA (US Department of Agriculture) against Ringling Bros. to have their exhibitor license revoked.
 

You may ask youself, why boycott the Circus? Recording Artist Fawn stated: “Ringling Brothers has a horrifying track record for abusing their elephant performers. It is my belief that if the children of this world knew what it takes for the animals to ‘do tricks’ and ‘perform’ for the audience, they wouldn’t WANT to come to the Circus!” Actress Olivia Munn told reporters “This is the largest Ringling Bros. Boycott ever, so it’s very exciting. Now that you know what they’re doing, you just can’t sit there and laugh and cheer. Go do something else with your money. Boycott the Circus and also realize it’s not 1920.”

Ringling trainers routinely jab, prod, hook, and strike elephants with a bull hook (a steel-tipped device that looks similar to a fireplace poker). They use it to control large animals and force them to perform unnatural acts. Typically, these abuses occur out of public view. Protesters had such bull hooks on hand to demonstrate how sharp, heavy, ominous and destructive these instruments are. Evidence including court documents, undercover videos, and photos of training sessions with baby elephants shows that Ringling routinely chains elephants in train box cars for more than 26 hours at a time, for as long as 60-100 hours without a break while traveling across the country for weeks at a time and they physically abuse elephants with electric shock devices and bull hooks, including one elephant who was “dripping blood all over the arena floor from being hooked.” There is also evidence that they train baby elephants through isolation from other elephants, prolonged restraint by tying their legs and hitting them with bull hooks. Linda Hogan, ex-wife of Hulk Hogan explained “This is something from back in the 1800′s. A lot of people are uneducated, it’s time to educate people.”

Humane Educator Ciddy Fonteboa offered another alternative to the Circus for animal lovers — the non-profit safe haven for animals, Animal Acres. Ciddy explained, “I feel that any business that supports animal suffering to profit from the public is also supporting violence and at Animal Acres, we support true freedom and peace for the animals that are rescued from cruelty cases. We give them the opportunity to be happy with out having to perform and entertain people.” She continued to explain “At Animal Acres children and people get to see that there is no difference from these rescued farm animals than the family dog. They have the same needs that all living beings on this earth do. ” Indeed they do. To find out more go to www.animalacres.org and http://www.peta.org

The protest was held at the same times from July 14, 2010 at 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm until Sunday, July 18, 2010. Ringling Bros representatives was not available for comment.

The Treasure Box (Food) A Solution During This Recession

As you all know the recession is not over yet and many of us (including writers and people from the entertainment industry) have to adjust our budget in expending less including food.

On June 30, 2010 Paul Magers and Pat Harvey of CBS 2 Los Angeles reported in their 11:00 pm news section about a company named Good Source Solutions the have created “The Treasure Box.” We checked CBS 2 website As Seen on TV (http://cbs2.com/tv) and we found The Treasure Box company website http://www.thetreasurebox.org/
Per The Treasure Box website their mission is to provides families and individuals with a substantial box of grocery store quality food retailing between $65-100 for just $30 each. The Treasure Box cultivates relationships with more than 500 major food manufacturers across the country to purchase and provide top quality, nutritious food at sizeable volume discounts to the general public.
They have the The Treasure Box (Monthly Menu for 1 person or can feed 4 person for 1 week) for$30, The Hearty Meat Protein Box for $30, The Quick & Healthy Meal Box for$30 and even the Kids Box for$30.
The Treasure Box program is available to every one it doesn’t matter your income criteria.
Hurry and share the great news with every one, your friends, family, co-workers about this alternative to deal with financial hardship especially the  recession.


You can purchase a Treasure Box online with major credit card. You can visit for more information, to find a location to pick up your food or order at  http://www.thetreasurebox.org/ The Treasure Box is also on Facebook and Twitter

Sources: CBS 2 Los Angeles, ABC 7 Los Angeles and The Treasure Box

Lady Gaga, Oprah Winfrey, James Cameron & U2 Top 10 World Most Powerful Celebrities Of 2010

Forbes.com reported on June 28, The 100 World Most Powerful Celebrities for year 2010.

Forbes magazine selected 100 but Diversity News is unique and we are selecting the top ten power ful entertainment celebrities.

Please tell us what you think about this selection.

Here we will share with you the Top 10 World Most Powerful Celebrities.

#1 Oprah Winfrey                  Earnings                       Money Rank     
Last year 2009 Rank: 2            $315 Millions                    1

#2 Beyoncé Knowles             $87 Millions                      11
2009 Rank: 4

#3 James Cameron               $210 Millions                      2
2009 Rank: No Rank

#4 Lady Gaga                             $62 Millions                      22
2009 Rank: No Rank

#5 Tiger Woods                        $105 Millions                     7
2009 Rank: 5

#6 Britney Spears                  $64 Millions                        20
2009 Rank: 13

#7 U2
2009 Rank: No Rank                  $130 Millions                     3

#8 Sandra Bullock                 $56 Millions                          25
2009 Rank: 92

#9 Johnny Depp                     $75 Millions                          14
2009 Rank: No Rank

#10 Madonna                           $58 Millions                           24
2009 Rank: 3

For the complete list you can visit Forbes Magazine at http://www.forbes.com/lists/2010/53/celeb-100-10_The-Celebrity-100.html
Source: Forbes.com Editor’s Note: Congratulations to all and we hope this rich powerful people can share part of the pie with needed hard working Americans. Dear celebrities do not forget the we support everything you do and that is why you are on the level now.

Blake Lewis, EVE & DEVO Headliners To Perform At Main Stage For San Diego Pride 2010

The San Diego Pride announced on Wednesday, June 23, the Festival Headliners for this year’s celebration to be held on Saturday, July 17, and Sunday, July 18, 2010 at Marston Point in Balboa Park.

Blake Lewis, former American Idol Season 7 to perform at 6:10 p.m., on Sunday, July 18. Eve, a Grammy-winning rap and hip-hop artist will perform at 8:15 p.m., Saturday, July 17 and DEVO, classic line-up of the 1980s band will perform at 7:15 p.m., on Sunday, July 18. They all will perform at the Cox Communications Main Stage.

The Parade is 1.5 miles about 2 hours and the route starts at 11 am on Sunday, July 18 on Normal Street & University. Event organizers expect 150,000 spectators including media for the Parade. The Festival is held on Saturday July 17 from 12 noon – 10pm and  Sunday July 18 from 11 am – 8pm and they expect 50,000 participants at the Festival.

The San Diego Pride Festival admission cost is $20.00 at the door but if purchase online $15.00 per day or $25 if bought in advance at http://sandiegopride.org/index.htm


About San Diego Pride:
Their purpose is to produce civic, cultural and educational programs, which support and encourage pride within San Diego’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities.
Their Mission is to Fostering pride in and respect for all lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities, locally and globally. Their Vision is A world free of prejudice and bias and Their Values

Diversity – being inclusive, accepting and respectful of the differences of people who share our values.

Respect – valuing others by accepting individuality and demonstrating courtesy and mutual regard.

Honesty and Integrity – communicating factual information and being true to our values.

Accountability – to be responsible for the effects and consequences of our words and action.

The San Diego Pride is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization incorporated in 1994.

For more information visit web sites at: http://www.sandiegopride.org & http://sdpride.blogspot.com

Sources: http://www.sandiegopride.org, http://www.myspace.com/diversitynewspublications  & http://www.diversitynewspublications.com

Editor’s Note: Last year 2009 we covered the San Diego Pride, you can find the article here on Diversity News just search on here or google it.

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