The First Lady Speaks at Tuskegee University

The First Lady, Dr. Biden Honor Military-Connected Mothers

First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden host their annual Mother’s Day tea to honor military-connected mothers at the White House. As part of their Joining Forces initiative, Mrs. Obama and Dr. Biden deliver brief remarks in the East Room followed by a musical performance by Ben Folds. At the event, the First Lady and Dr. Biden also help military kids create homemade gifts for their mothers and grandmothers. May 8, 2015.

Severe Storms Strike Plains States, Start to Head East

ABC Breaking US News | ABC Politics News

Woman Claims Airline Kicked Her Autistic Daughter Off Flight

ABC Breaking US News | ABC Politics News

'Home Health Aides from Hell'

Poor Background Checks, Absence of Fingerprinting
Requirements Place Millions of Nation's Elderly in Danger 

Jack Halpern is the CEO of the New York City-based My Elder Advocate, LLC. As its name suggests, the organization provides advocacy services and helps seniors with issues such as eviction prevention, nursing home and hospital crisis intervention, nursing home or assisted living placement and long term care planning. Mr. Halpern joins me to explain why abuse by home health aides has reached a crisis point in New York, as well as other sections of the country, and what can be done to address the problem.

Cuomo Announces Task Force to Tackle Abuse in the Nail Salon Industry

Departments of State and Other Agencies Team Up to Stop 

Wage Theft, Unsafe Working Conditions and Unlicensed Businesses

Governor Andrew Cuomo today announced the launch of a multi-agency Enforcement Task Force that will move immediately to prevent unlawful practices and unsafe working conditions in the nail salon industry. The Task Force will also recover unpaid wages and shut down unlicensed businesses and businesses out of compliance with state law.

“New York State has a long history of confronting wage theft and unfair labor practices head on and today, with the formation of this new Enforcement Task Force, we are aggressively following in that tradition,” Governor Cuomo said. “We will not stand idly by as workers are deprived of their hard-earned wages and robbed of their most basic rights. This Task Force will crack down on these kinds of abuses in the nail salon industry, enforce all of New York’s health and safety regulations, and help ensure that no one – regardless of their citizenship status or what language they speak – is illegally victimized by their employer.”

The immediate actions include:

· Multi-Jurisdiction Approach: Task Force member agencies will work together to implement new health and safety regulations for nail salon employees and engage in new enforcement actions to recover unpaid wages, issue fines and penalties for violations of all relevant laws and regulations, assess damages and evaluate whether to revoke the license of violators.

· New Health and Safety Regulations: Task Force members will implement new workplace safety regulations for nail salons that require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves and face masks where warranted, and vigorously enforce existing regulations that grant all nail salon employees the right to demand and wear PPE at any time. New regulations will also require each work station to be equipped with personal fans. Laws and regulations regarding ventilation will be strictly enforced.

· Surety Required: Task Force members will implement new regulations requiring every nail salon to secure either a bond or expanded insurance policy to cover claims for unpaid wages as part of its licensure. In addition, where a nail salon fails to comply with an order to pay assessed back wages, an additional bond to cover those wages and two years’ worth of future wages will be demanded by the Department of Labor.

· License Revocation: Task Force members will move to revoke the business license of any egregious offender who is out of compliance with state law. The Department of State has jurisdiction to seek a license revocation of businesses out of compliance and will take such action where warranted.

· Mandatory Postings about Employee Rights: Nail salons will be required to post notices visible to all employees and in multiple languages that describe the employees’ right to full, legal wages and a safe working environment. Postings will include hotline numbers to report complaints and information about available resources.

· Shutting Down Unlicensed Businesses: The Department of State will immediately initiate proceedings to shut down unlicensed businesses.

· Notice Visible to the Public: The Department of State will issue new regulations requiring any nail salon noticed to appear at a cease and desist proceeding to post the legal notice in the window of the business in a manner visible to the public.

· Education and Outreach: Task Force members will conduct a series of education and outreach actions that will inform workers of their rights under the law in multiple languages and offer resources and assistance. This outreach will include information regarding confidential reporting opportunities, to encourage workers – including those who may be undocumented – to come forward to report abuses. Outreach and education efforts will also target business owners as to their legal responsibilities regarding wages, health and safety.

· Community-Based Partnership: Task Force members will work with community based organizations to identify violators and to encourage workers to come forward.

Every worker complaint that is reported to the state is investigated. When a pattern of rampant violations within an industry appears, the state will conduct a proactive, multi-agency investigation and has done so in the carwash, restaurant and construction industries.

In May 2014, the Department of Labor conducted a comprehensive investigation into nail salons that was recently highlighted as part of a two-part series in The New York Times. The investigation of 29 nail salons resulted in the finding of 116 violations of state labor law. The disturbing worker stories reflect that the nail salon industry is rife with worker abuse. The Task Force announced today will greatly strengthen enforcement capabilities and bring new tools to bear in cleaning up the nail salon industry.

New York State continues to be a national leader in returning money to workers who were not paid the proper minimum wage, overtime pay or fringe benefits. In 2014, the Department of Labor disbursed $30.2 million -- the highest amount in history -- to nearly 27,000 New York workers. New York State also has the second largest enforcement staff in the nation.

The State employs dozens of investigators who speak multiple languages. All state agencies have comprehensive language access services in all languages available to employees and customers.

The Task Force strongly urges any worker who has not been paid the proper wages, or anyone concerned about safety, working conditions or other abuses at nail salons to contact the Task Force at 1-888-469-7365.

'From The G-Man' Returns in May!

Gary Glennell Toms, aka "The G-Man" 

"From The G-Man" (FTG) is set to return with a vengeance! After nearly three years of inactivity, the site will re-launch and begin posting commentaries, original news content and information, news videos and special features on May 11.

Prior to being shut down in December of 2012, From The G-Man received a proclamation in 2010 from New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr. for excellence in the field of journalism, online media, and community service.

In 2012, the site was lauded by several noted journalists, including Les Payne, co-founder of the National Association of Black Journalists, Pulitzer Prize-winning author, and the former assistant managing editor of Newsday.

In addition, it has been praised by Emmy award-winning news producer Tom Osborne, formerly of ABC World News Tonight....with Peter Jennings, and Jim Flink, Vice President and General Manager of the award-winning news organization Newsy.com.

Episodes of the critically acclaimed and increasingly popular series "The G-Man Interviews", which was launched shortly after FTG was shut down, will continue to be published on YouTube.

The G-Man Interviews is an independent news and information series based in Harlem, New York, and features exclusive interviews with celebrities, community activists, foreign policy experts, and political/social figures, to name a few. The series operates solely off public donations in order to maintain creative and editorial control of all content. Its objective is to make a difference through quality journalism while adhering to its best standards and practices.
 

In April of 2013, The G-Man Interviews was acknowledged and praised, via an official letter, by the South Korean government for its coverage of the Korean conflict, and another episode played a crucial role in the U.S. Justice Department’s decision to consider launching an investigation into civil rights violations by the Omaha Police Department. Subsequently, two officers were fired for tampering with evidence in a brutality case.

The site and series were created by Gary Glennell Toms, who serves as managing editor. Over the course of his career, Toms has received 10 citations for journalism and commuity service.

The G-Man's Latest Offering

"The G-Man Interviews" Series 
Gaining the Attention of Many 

Greetings,

I'm submitting this brief announcement as a result of the many, many emails I receive from people that continue to log on and read or view my four-year catalog of work. I'm truly honored by the comments and heartfelt requests to relaunch this news and information site. 

As stated during the final months of operation, the site could no longer function without significant advertising or public donations to help maintain its base of operations and produce even more quality news stories and features. I literally placed myself in debt to hold on to my creation and provide the public with hardcore, uncensored, and unfiltered news and information while battling proponents of "yellow journalism". I exhausted whatever savings I had over the four-year period just to manage the site on a full-time basis, but in the end it proved to be more than I could handle, financially speaking. 

I still have hope that one day a person of substantial means or wealth will come across this site, see its potential and power, and contact me with an offer to help reactivate it and make it better than ever. Undoubtedly, I'll jump at the chance. 

Until then, I invite all of my devoted "G-Fans", and those discovering this site for the first time, to visit the following link to see my latest offering: "The G-Man Interviews". 

http://www.youtube.com/user/garythegmantoms

The show features exclusive interviews with some of the country's leading activists, celebrities, foreign policy experts and political figures. It premiered in December of 2012, shortly before I shut down "From The G-Man", but it is quickly gaining the attention of media industry professionals, public officials and the general public. I hope you'll join me. 

Here's are two recent episodes. Enjoy.

'Good Night, And Good Luck'

A Special Farewell Video Message to Mainstream Media and the Public

Okay, folks. I'm going to be very brief. I thank those of you that took the time to log on and read or watch many of the breaking and original news stories, special features, and exclusive interviews that were posted. I also thank those that contributed to this site during its four year run. Whether you gave a monetary donation or moral support, I will always be grateful. You're a crucial reason why the site was able to last for as long as it did. 

I would like the video that has been posted to serve as a reminder -- to the American media and the public -- of what good, true journalism is really all about. It's from the critically acclaimed film "Good Night, and Good Luck", and the speech given by the lead character, Edward R. Murrow, whom I consider one of my journalism mentors, is just as relevant today as it was in the late 1950's. 

Let us not forget the true nature of journalism and the mission of a journalist, which, in its most unvarnished form, is to fearlessly shine the spotlight of truth upon corruption, deceit...and injustice. This is the essence of journalism. 

Again, I thank my supporters and wish all of you a very Happy New Year. 

This is "The G-Man".....signing off. 

Today in History: December 31st

President Obama Makes a Statement on Averting Tax Hikes for Middle Class Families

The President tells the press that leaders in Congress may be able to reach an agreement that can pass both houses in time.

"Best of the West (Wing Week)"

Welcome to the "Best of the West (Wing Week)!" That's right, folks, West Wing Week took some time over the holidays to reflect on a busy year in video, and to bring you some highlights from the archive. But first, a quick wrap up of the President's week.

Bruce Bartlett and Yves Smith on Overhyping the Fiscal Cliff

Moyers & Company

Air Date: December 14, 2012

Bruce Bartlett and Yves Smith join Bill Moyers in a discussion about why Washington insiders are talking about the deficit crisis instead of the jobs crisis.

Today in History: December 28, 2012

President Woodrow Wilson is born; John C. Calhoun becomes the first vice president of the United States to resign; Alexander Solzhenitsyn's "Gulag Archipelago" is published; Actor Denzel Washington and comic book creator Stan Lee are born. 

Female US. Army Veterans Fight for Support

The U.S. Army now includes more women than ever before. And, like their male counterparts, women veterans face a host of medical and psychological issues when they return home from the front lines  When they do come back, many women say they are finding it difficult to get the help they need in a system still dominated by men. Al Jazeera's Kristen Saloomey reports from New York City.

China Intensifies Cyber Crackdown

Bloggers in China will no longer be allowed to publish anonymously, and their posts may be deleted, and information about them may be sent to the authorities. It is all part of a package of new internet rules which critics say are an attack on freedom of speech. Rob McBride has reports from Hong Kong.

Philippines Clings to Disputed Island in South China Sea

Thitu Island is at the center of one of the biggest territorial disputes in the world. It is part of the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea, which are believed to be sitting on billions of dollars' worth of oil and gas reserves. Six countries claim ownership of the tiny archipelago, including the Philippines, which has people living on Thitu Island as a means to strengthen its claim on the Spratlys. Al Jazeera's Jamela Alindogan reports from the Spratlys in the South China Sea.

Indian Teenage Girl Ends Life After Gang Rape

A teenage girl in Indian state of Punjab has committed suicide after police refused to file case against the rapists. She left behind a note criticizing the police and her attackers. Al Jazeera's Caroline Malone reports.

Anti-Maliki Protests Continue in Iraq

Tens of thousands of protesters in Iraq have taken part in fresh rallies against the government of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. Massive demonstrations took place along a major highway near the city of Fallujah on Friday, a day after thousands of protesters continued an almost week-long blockade on a key highway in the western Anbar province.

Nigeria Hit by Mass Unemployment

Unemployment affects more than 20 percent of the workforce in Nigeria - and is particularly bad among young people. Fifty million youths are out of work. That's forcing thousands of women to endure tough working conditions just to survive.

'Put Politics and Partisanship Aside for Public Need and Progress'

Statement from Governor Andrew Cuomo 

on Sandy Aid

As Congress returns to Washington to confront the federal government’s significant fiscal challenges, the members of the House of Representatives cannot and must not ignore the critical needs still facing New Yorkers, and our entire region, in the wake of Sandy. The President has emphatically endorsed our region’s request for aid and the Senate voted to move the package forward with bi-partisan support. A final vote of approval is expected today. It is now up to the House to come together the same way the Senate did and act.

The members of the House will be in Washington this weekend and, while a fiscal cliff deal remains elusive, passing the Sandy aid package should not be a matter impacted, much less stalled, by the same partisan contention or parliamentary process. Our demonstrated need and the House’s past precedent should make this vote a slam dunk. New York's Congressional delegation has done an outstanding job coming together in a bi-partisan fashion to make the case for this aid and I thank them for their efforts.

Twenty-four U.S. states were in some way affected by Sandy. The storm killed at least 131 people in eight states, including at least 60 in New York, at least 35 in New Jersey, and dozens in Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Connecticut, Virginia and North Carolina combined. Hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed in our region, leading to billions in economic disruption and loss. As New Yorkers have bravely confronted the challenge of recovering and rebuilding, the work goes on and they should not have to do it alone.

Every time there has been a storm or disaster even close to the size and scope of Sandy, regardless of the region of the country, the House has approved billions of dollars in supplemental aid -- $290 billion in total since 1989 as part of 35 separate supplemental appropriations bills. North, South, East and West, the House has always acted and acted quickly. Except now.

I understand this is a lot of money and these are tight fiscal times. But, this was a big storm – the second most damaging storm in our nation’s history – and the needs are great and growing.

Put politics and partisanship aside for public need and progress. Partisan gridlock is the enemy of a functioning democracy and the core of democracy is the people coming together to protect and support each other through their government.

The fact is not only New Yorkers ask the members of the House to support us in times of crisis. The whole nation is now watching to see whether or not they will be able to count on the House, as they have so many times before, when their time of need comes again. This vote is a vote of confidence -- confidence that Americans can count on the House to function when we need it most.

'Tie One On for Safety' Anti-DWI Initiative Launched

Campaign Spearheaded by the Thruway Authority and MADD

New York State Thruway Authority toll collectors will handout 18,000 red ribbons on Friday, December 28, 2012 to mark the annual Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) “Tie One On For Safety” campaign, the Thruway Authority announced today.

The ribbons, which will also be available at the Thruway’s Travel Plazas, will be distributed to motorists upon entry at the following Thruway exits: Exit 15 (Woodbury); Exit 17 (Newburgh); Exit 24 (Albany); Exit B3 (Canaan, Mass Pike); Exit 34A (Syracuse); Exit 36 (Watertown, Binghamton); Exit 39 (Syracuse, I-690); Exit 46 (Rochester, Corning); and Exit 55 (Lackawanna).

“The New York State Thruway is one of America’s safest highways and our participation in this campaign encourages drivers to keep themselves and others safe by not drinking and driving,” said Thruway Authority Executive Director Thomas J. Madison.

“To honor lives lost and those injured as a result of impaired driving, we should do all that we can to save other families from enduring this pain,” said Michele Fonda, MADD spokeswoman. “MADD is pleased to have the continued support of the Thruway Authority and recommends planning ahead for a safe way home – designating a sober driver before drinking begins, hosting parties responsibly, and providing alternate transportation or accommodations for those who have been drinking.”

The foot-long red ribbons, a symbol chosen by MADD in 1986, are meant to be displayed on motorist’ vehicles to raise public awareness of the dangers of impaired driving and encourage all to take the pledge to drive safe, sober, and buckled up.  The “Tie One On For Safety” campaign is MADD’s longest running and most visible public awareness project.  In addition to participating in the ribbon handout, the Thruway Authority will be posting MADD’s reminder to “Drive Safe and Sober” on message boards throughout the Thruway system from December 27, 2012 to January 1, 2013.

MADD was established in 1980 to advocate safe driving. The national organization has more than 600 affiliates nationwide, with 18 chapters throughout New York State. MADD focuses on finding effective solutions to the problems of drunk driving and underage drinking, as well as supporting those who have suffered from the consequences of both.  Nationwide Insurance is the National Presenting Sponsor for MADD’s “Tie One On For Safety” red ribbon campaign.

MADD also expresses support for law enforcement crackdown efforts, particularly during the holiday season when the number of alcohol-related crashes rises.  New York State Police Troop T will be conducting specialized patrols and a fixed checkpoint in undisclosed locations along the Thruway during the holiday period.

For more information about MADD, please see the website www.madd.org.

To receive TRANSalert emails with information on Thruway traffic incidents and other timely information, click here.

To see real-time webcam views of the Thruway, click here.

To see an interactive map including Google traffic conditions for the Thruway and other roadways in New York State and beyond, click here.

'We've Lost an American Original'

Statement by President Obama on the Passing of General Norman Schwarzkopf

With the passing of General Norman Schwarzkopf, we've lost an American original. From his decorated service in Vietnam to the historic liberation of Kuwait and his leadership of United States Central Command, General Schwarzkopf stood tall for the country and Army he loved. Our prayers are with the Schwarzkopf family, who tonight can know that his legacy will endure in a nation that is more secure because of his patriotic service. 

Editor's note: This report has been corrected. In the initial report, From The G-Man was informed that the statement was made by the White House press secretary.

In Memoriam....Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Persian Gulf War Commander Dies at 78 After a Prolonged Illness

The NBC News video provides a look back at the crucial role Schwarzkopf played during the war and his no-nonsense style of command.

From The G-Man would like to take this opportunity to honor Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf  his love of country, and his service with the following video tribute. May he forever rest in peace.

Video uploaded to YouTube by moderatepopulist

Consumer Confidence Falls, Housing Starts Rise

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Why Are You Still Gangbanging in 2012?

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Lisa Jackson, EPA Chief, to Bounce in Early 2013

Statement by President Obama on Environmental Protection Agency Leader's Departure

Over the last four years, Lisa Jackson has shown an unwavering commitment to the health of our families and our children. Under her leadership, the EPA has taken sensible and important steps to protect the air we breathe and the water we drink, including implementing the first national standard for harmful mercury pollution, taking important action to combat climate change under the Clean Air Act, and playing a key role in establishing historic fuel economy standards that will save the average American family thousands of dollars at the pump, while also slashing carbon pollution. Lisa has been an important part of my team, and I want to thank her for her service in my Administration and her tireless efforts to benefit the American people. I wish her all the best wherever her future takes her.

Details on Jackson's accomplishments and life are available here. 

Todd: 'Total Political Paralysis' in Fiscal Talks

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Fiscal Cliff Negotiations and Congressional Agenda

Air date: December 27, 2012

Merideth Shiner spoke by phone about developments in negotiations over the “fiscal cliff” tax increases and budget cuts set to take place in January 2013 if Congress failed to reach a budget agreement.

2013 Housing Market

Air date: December 27, 2012

Lawrence Yun gave his predictions for the housing market in the year 2013. He also responded to telephone calls and electronic communications. Topics included the home mortgage deduction, the possible impact of “fiscal cliff” tax increases and sequestration. and federal refinancing programs. 

Today in History: December 27th

The Soviet Union invades Afghanistan; Charles Darwin sets out on a round-the-world voyage; Radio City Music Hall opens in New York; James Barrie's play "Peter Pan: The Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up" opens in London. 

Sniper Targets Al Jazeera Reporters in Syria

A team of Al Jazeera journalists reporting from Syria's western province of Hama came under sniper fire killing a local guide. Abu Yezen al-Hamoui, a Syrian national who have been working with Al Jazeera correspondents, was killed in the attack. Al Jazeera Mubasher's Amr al-Munairy reports from Hama.

Children 'Killed' in Syria Army Tank Attack

Syrian opposition groups report shelling across the country, with fierce fighting in Idlib, Homs and Deir Azzour. In central Syria, activists report that at least 20 people have been killed, including 8 children. Al Jazeera's Mohamed Vall reports.

Rebels Advance in Central African Republic

Embattled Central African Republic president Francois Bozize, urged the United States and France to help push back rebel forces who have advanced towards the capital Bangui. The rebel coalition - known as Seleka - accuse the government of not compensating them according to the terms of a 2007 peace deal. Al Jazeera's Gerald Tan reports.

Philippines Shores up Spratly Islands' Defense

Japan is in a territorial tussle with China over disputed islands in the East China Sea. There is also conflict surrounding islands in the South China Sea. The Spratly islands are claimed by China and five other countries, including the Philippines. Al Jazeera's Jamela Alindogan reports.

Japan's Shinzo Abe Gets Second Chance as PM

Japan's parliament has formally appointed Shinzo Abe as the new prime minister. He had previously served in the same job from 2006 to 2007. His administration will have to win over a public weary of revolving door politics and will need to convince his people that the best of times are still ahead. Al Jazeera's Gerald Tan reports.

China Launches World's Longest High-Speed Rail

China has launched the world's longest high-speed rail line, which runs 2,298 kms from the Beijing in the north to Guangzhou, an economic hub in the Pearl River delta in southern China. But the high prices for fares have been criticised. The cheapest tickets are priced at 138 USD one way and the most expensive seats are at 437 USD. Al Jazeera's Gerald Tan takes a closer look at China's latest showpiece.

Russian Ban of U.S. Adoptions Awaits Putin's Signature

There have been more demonstrations in the Russian capital over a proposed law to restrict Americans from adopting Russian orphans. There are claims it's simply tit-for-tat legislation following growing efforts in the US to stop what it claims are human rights violations inside Russia. More than 60,000 children have been adopted by US parents, including 1,600 orphans in 2011. Al Jazeera's Richard Martin reports.

Drones Could Save Rhinos from Extinction

Animal conservationists in Kenya think drones could well be the answer to bringing back the Northern White Rhino from near extinction. There are only seven of these rhinos left in the world. Four of them live in a Kenyan conservancy, but the rhinos are under constant threat from poachers. Al Jazeera's Nazanine Moshiri reports from Ol Pejeta in Central Kenya.

George H.W. Bush in 'Guarded Condition'

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In Intensive Care, Battling Elevated Fever, Spokesman Says