July 1, 2011
Leon Panetta sworn in as secretary of defense
Leon Panetta was sworn in as secretary of defense a day after stepping down as C.I.A director. In a statement to members of the military and their families, the newly-instated secretary of defense said that they are “at the top of my agenda.” In a message to the military, Panetta also stated the plans to be an “advocate for the troops. Read more: WTOP.com)
July 1, 2011
New law makes environmental literacy a must for Md. high school graduates
The State Board of Education passed into law last the requirement that all Maryland high school students be environmentally literate in order to graduate. The law makes Maryland the only state with such a requirement. “We’ve always, in Maryland, had a strong focus on environmental education,” says State Department of Education spokesman Bill Reinhard. (Read more: WTOP.com)
July 1, 2011
16 visitors trapped in Washington Monument after elevator stalls
16 early morning visitors were rescued from the Washington Monument by Washington D.C. fire fighters after the elevator they were riding was reported stalled 500 feet off the ground. Visitors waiting in line had to wait until all repairs were finished and then were given free tickets to the top. Roughly two dozen visitors at the very top were forced to walk down from the top. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 30, 2011
Time magazine editor Mark Halperin calls President Obama a “dick”; suspended indefinitely
On Thursday morning, during “Morning Joe” on MSNBC, hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski were shocked following the vulgar comments of one of their guests. During the appearance, political analyst and editor-at-large at Time magazine Mark Halperin called President Obama a “dick” while describing the President’s speech at a press conference on Wednesday. Upon learning that the comment went out on the air, Halperin apologized.
Below is the transcript of the conversation between Scarborough, Brzezinski and Halperin
Halperin: “Do we have the seven-second delay today? I want to characterize how I thought the President behaved?”
Brzezinski: “We have it. [Asking the show producer] We can use it, right?”
Scarborough: “Yeah, sure, come one, take a chance. Have faith.”
Brzezinski: “Let’s see what happens.”
Scarborough: “I’m behind you. You fall down. I’m gonna catch you.”
Brzezinski: “And the precedent has been set on the show, so you’re good.”
Halperin: “I thought he was kind of a dick yesterday.”
Scarborough: “Oh my God. Delay that! Delay that! What are you doing? I can’t believe you. I was joking! Don’t do that! Did we delay that?”
Moments later Halperin apologized to the President.
Halperin: “Joking aside, this is an absolute apology. I shouldn’t have said it. I apologize to the President and the viewers who heard me say that,” he said.
June 30, 2011
PG County Council member Leslie Johnson enters guilty plea
Leslie Johnson, a member of the Prince George’s County Council and the wife of former Prince George’s County Executive Jack Johnson, has entered a guilty plea to her role in a major corruption scheme with her husband. According to prosecutors, Johnson pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit witness and evidence tampering. Last November, Johnson was arrested after stuffing nearly $80,000 in her under garments and flushing an illicit $100,000 down the toilet. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 30, 2011
New Va. poll reveals high approval of Gov. McDonnell, gay adoption
A recent state-wide poll revealed that Virginian Governor Bob McDonnell has a 2-1 approval rating and that the respondents to the poll are ready for Virginia to end the ban on adoption by same-sex couples. Registered voters in Virginia were polled over the phone between the days of June 21-27. McDonnell has been considered as a potential vice-president running mate for the Republican ticket in the 2012 presidential election. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 30, 2011
Justin Timberlake to buy Myspace
Justin Timberlake is reportedly part of a group that is buying the social networking site MySpace. The pop star purchased the Web site from News Corp in a deal completed Wednesday. Timberlake played a similar part in the recent film “Social Network” about the founding of Facebook, when he portrayed Napster co-founder Sean Parker. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 29, 2011
Obama to hold press conference on economy
For the first time since his negotiations regarding the debt and budget, President Barack Obama will schedule a press conference today as well as a question-and-answer session with the press. Obama is expected to speak on the deficit, job growth and spurring the economy. The speech comes days after the president announced a major withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 29, 2011
Trial for man former police chief said was an “infamous killer”
The murder trial for the man former Prince George’s County Police Chief Roberto Hylton stated as “one of America’s most infamous killers,” begins today in Federal Court. Jason T. Scott has been charged with gun possession, carjacking and sexual exploitation of a minor but the trial is expected to reveal more evidence which prompted Hylton to make his comments. According to WTOP.com, Scott is currently charged in state court with the 2009 murders of Delores Dewitt and her 20-year-old daughter Ebony. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 29, 2011
New Mexico residents fear radioactive smoke from wildfires
Vicious wildfires in northern New Mexico have left nearby residents terrified as the flames are threatening the Los Alamos Nuclear facility. Many residents, downwind of the smoke, fear radioactive smoke plumes if the wildfires reach thousands of barrels of waste that is stored above ground. It is estimated that there are approximately 30,000 gallon drums of toxic waste above ground. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 28, 2011
Obama continues re-election campaign in Iowa, talks economy
For the first time since he announced his re-election bid, President Barack Obama is headed to Iowa to fend off recent criticism from Republicans that have focused on the state. Obama will use his time in Iowa to tour manufacturing factories and to talk economics, not politics. Obama is strongly linked to Iowa, as it was the state that jump-started his presidential bid when Obama won there in 2008. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 28 2011
Illinois Gov. Blagojevich found guilty of 17 charges
Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich was left standing stunned with head-in-hands after a jury read the verdict yesterday that will most likely send Blagojevich to a federal prison for the next decade. Blagojevich was on trial following corruption charges in which the governor tried to sell or trade President Barack Obama’s old Senate seat and also shaking down executives for campaign cash. Said Blagojevich, “[I] have to get home to our little girls and talk to them and explain things to them and then try to sort things out.” The jury convicted Blagojevich on 17 charges. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 28 2011
U.S. commander in Afghanistan endorses withdrawal
Marine Lt. Gen. John Allen, who was chosen to take over as top U.S. commander in Afghanistan, endorsed the size and speed of the withdrawal of 30,000 troops from Afghanistan laid out by President Barack Obama. Other high ranking military officials are more wary of such a withdrawal, stating that it is both “risky” and “aggressive.” According to Allen, the withdrawal will impress Afghanistan and allow them to instate their own security forces. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 27, 2011
Michelle Bachmann enters presidential race
Michelle Bachmann, an out-spoken Tea Party favorite announced her decision to run for the Republican presidential nomination. Bachmannn, a three-term Minnesota congresswoman, made her announcement at a rally before a crowd of hundreds in Waterloo, taking the opportunity to lash out at the president. Said Bachmann, “We can’t afford four more years of Barack Obama.” (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 27, 2011
Jury decides fate of former Illinois Gov. Blagojevich
Two years after the arrest of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, the ousted lawmaker will hear the verdict in his corruption trial as jurors have reached an agreement on 18 of the 20 counts against Blagojevich. Blagojevich, 54, was arrested and faces allegations for “trying to sell or trade an appointment to President Barack Obama’s vacated U.S. Senate seat in exchange for a high-paying job, and schemed to shake down executives for campaign donations.” Blagojevich has denied all charges. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 27, 2011
Michael Jackson “Thriller” jacket sells for $1.8 million
The “Thriller” jacket that the late pop singer Michael Jackson wore for his music video “Thriller” sold at an auction for $1.8 million. The jacket is one of two red and black calfskin suits that Jackson wore during the video. The scene in which Jackson wore it came at the point in the film when Jackson danced with a troupe of zombies rising from the grave. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 24, 2011
Diplomats lay plans for post-Gadhafi Libya
International diplomats and others in opposition of Libya met recently to draw up plans of a future Libya no longer under the control of Moammar Gadhafi. Aiming at rebuilding the North African country currently immersed in civil war, the group of diplomats will strive to maintain law and order, continue oil production and deploy United Nations peacekeepers. “We are planning carefully and comprehensively for the days, weeks and months after Gadhafi has gone,” one diplomat said. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 24, 2011
Obama to speak; give $500 million to spur technology manufacturing
At a speech Friday in Pittsburgh, President Barack Obama is expected to introduce his $500 million project intended to spur high-technology manufacturing. The president cited technology competition in Japan and Germany as the reason why. The money will go to creating faster, lighter cars and smarter robots. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 24, 2011
Riggleman steps down as Nats’ manager
In a move that surprised both player and fan, Washington Nationals’ interim manager Jim Riggleman abruptly quit, citing that he wanted a new deal or he would leave the team . According to Riggleman, the manger was certain he would be forced out for a new manager once the team became a contender. Riggleman steps down just as the Nats, one of the hottest teams in baseball, leave for a six-game road trip following a sweep of the Seattle Mariners. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 23, 2011
Mullen, Clinton suggest Obama’s removal of troops “risky”
According to a U.S. military top officer and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, President Barack Obama took a quicker and more “riskier” route to removing troops from Afghanistan than United States generals preferred. Said Clinton, “I think it would be totally understandable that a military commander would want as many troops for as long as he could get them.” That top officer, Navy Adm. Mike Mullen reported that while removing troops quickly was the safe choice, it was not necessarily the best choice. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 23, 2011
F.B.I. capture No. 1 Most Wanted
After a manhunt that lasted nearly 16 years, the F.B.I. has finally captured ruthless Boston mob boss James “Whitey” Bulger, who rose to No. one on the F.B.I.’s Ten Most Wanted List following the death of Osama bin Laden. Bulger, who was the model for Jack Nicholson’s character in Marin Scorcese’s movie “The Departed,” was arrested at his apartment where was staying with his long time girlfriend. Bulger was responsible for the death of at least eight people. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 23, 2011
Maryland football will continue to play games in Baltimore
University of Maryland has announced that the university’s football team will reportedly play at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore in 2013 and 2014 following past football events at the stadium that drew near capacity crowds. The Terrapins football team is slated to play West Virginia in 2013 and ACC rival Virginia Tech in 2014. Maryland last played at M&T Bank Stadium in 2010, drawing 69,348 fans that witnessed Maryland defeat Navy. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 22, 2011
Obama to withdraw roughly 10,000 troops from Afghanistan
As America grows tired of the wars abroad, President Barack Obama announced today that he intends to withdraw roughly 10,000 troops from Afghanistan in less than a year. The withdraw will eventually give Afghans control of the country by 2014. At 8 p.m. tonight, the president will address the country on his decision to withdraw troops. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 22, 2011
Government report releases darkening news about nation’s power plants
A report by the Government Accountability Office released today stated that three-quarters of America’s 65 nuclear power plants are leaking radioactive water, sometimes into groundwater. The report showed that U.S. operators of nuclear power plants have no way of detecting the leaks, many of which occur in aging pipes snaking underneath the ground, and that the leaks have not been detected “for years.” The report will aid in helping lawmakers decide if aging power plants should be shutdown. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 22, 2011
“Culture change” needed for Metro
According to the National Transportation Safety Board, Metro is in need of a “culture change” following the deadliest crash in Metro history two years ago and a series of safety violations since. “It’s going to take time to get through this,” said Debbie Hersman, chair of NTSB. A wreath-laying ceremony is planned for today to honor those that died in the 2009 Metro crash. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 21, 2011
FDA adds warning labels to cigarette packs
For the first time in 25 years, the Food and Drug Administration made its most significant changes to U.S. cigarette packs, releasing nine new warning labels that depict the negative side-effects of smoking. According to the FDA, those warnings include pictures of rotting teeth as well as a man with a tracheotomy smoking. Roughly 443,000 people die a year from smoking. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 21, 2011
Jon Huntsman latest Republican to join presidential race
Former Utah governor Jon Huntsman officially joined the G.O.P. race for the presidency, stating that the current status of America was “totally unacceptable.” Huntsman joins seven other Republican candidates including Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum in the race for the 2012 White House. “What we need now is leadership that trusts in our strength,” Huntsman said. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 21, 2011
Gabrielle Giffords and husband Mark Kelly to release a memoir
Arizona Democrat Gabrielle Giffords and her husband, astronaut Mark Kelly, are reportedly releasing a memoir that will tell of their lives and document the January 8 shooting that severely wounded Giffords. According to Kelly, the primary collaborator will Kelly but Giffords will be a “big part of this.” Kelly announced his retirement from the Navy and NASA Tuesday. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 17, 2011
Police arrest man suspected of attacking Pentagon
Police officials revealed today that the man who attacked the Pentagon this morning had a military background and was linked to several vehicle tamperings in the past month. The 22-year-old, who is reportedly a lance corporal in the U.S. Marines Corps reserve, was found in Arlington Cemetery and told police he had left ammonium nitrate on the Pentagon grounds. Police also found a notebook with the words “Taliban rules.” (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 17, 2011
U.S. paying groups $1 million to destroy loose anti-aircraft missiles
The United States is reportedly paying two European mine-clearing groups $1 million to enter Libya and find, disarm and dispose of loose anti-aircraft missiles that could potentially end up in the hands of terrorists. “It was an issue of paramount importance,” said Justin Brady, officer-in-charge of the U.N. Mine Action Service. This mission has no effect on the nearly 20,000 anti-aircraft missiles in the hands of the Libyan military. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 17, 2011
McIlroy breaks 111-year-old U.S. Open record at Bethesda golf course
Roy McIlroy finished Friday with an 11-under 131 at the Congressional in Bethesda, Md., setting the record for the best score after 36 holes in the 111 year history of the U.S. Open Championship golf tournament. The golfer from Northern Ireland shattered the record previously held by Tiger Woods. McIlroy shot a 5-under on Friday giving him an 8 stroke lead heading into the weekend. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 16, 2011
Rep. Weiner resigns following sex scandal
Following harsh criticism from the media as well as fellow lawmakers including President Barack Obama, Rep. Anthony Weiner has reportedly resigned his seat in Congress after admitting to sending lewd photos to females over Twitter. The New York Congressman, 46, is married and experienced “tabloid-frenzy turmoil” after an x-rated photo of the lawmaker surfaced on the internet. A special election will be called to fill his seat. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 16, 2011
Al-Zawahri to succeed bin Laden
Long time deputy of Osama bin Laden, Ayman Al-Zawahri has reportedly succeeded the fallen terrorist leader as the head of al-Qaida. Al-Zawahri, who is an Egyption born surgeon, vowed to avenge the death of bin Laden at the hands of U.S. Navy SEALS. Zawahri is considered a cunning leader with technical prowess. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 16, 2011
Bruins win Stanley Cup
For the first time in 39 years, the Boston Bruins hoisted the Stanley Cup. The Bruins defeated the Vancouver Canucks in game 7, 4-0, in one of the more entertaining championship series in recent memory. Tim Thomas, the Bruins’ goalie, stopped 238 of the Canucks’ 246 shots, prompting the NHL to reward Thomas with the MVP of the finals. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 14, 2011
G.O.P. meets for first on-stage debate
At a New Hampshire debate, six months before the state holds its first primary, Republican White House hopefuls met on stage in an open debate. From the opening of the event, G.O.P. candidate’s attacked President Obama, calling out health care and the economy, labeling the current financial downturn “Obama depression.” According to WTOP.com, Obama was hundreds of miles away continuing his effort to create jobs in America. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 14, 2011
Police cracking down on HOV violators
Police in both Maryland and Virginia will be cracking down in force to bust High Occupancy Vehicle violators. According to both states’ police, drivers without enough passengers traveling in the HOV lanes will be pulled over. Tickets carry heavy fines and possible points. Roads with HOV lanes include Interstate 50, 270, 66, 95 and 395. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 14, 2011
Boehner calls for Weiner’s resignation
Speaker of the House John Boehner is the most recent lawmaker to join President Barack Obama and other Democrats in calling for the resignation of Rep. Anthony Weiner, who reportedly sent risqué photographs to other woman and then later lied about it. The married 46-year-old is currently a congressman from New York and is part of the Energy and Commerce Committee. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 13, 2011
Complete form of Pentagon Papers released
The National Archives and presidential libraries are releasing for the first time, the complete form of the Pentagon papers leaked 40 years ago to the day. The form documents the secret cover up by the government on dealings in Vietnam. The original leak of the Pentagon Papers cast a dark shadow on the presidency of Richard Nixon and Lyndon Johnson. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 13, 2011
Woman threatens to blow up Metro
According to Metro, a woman got down her knees and “threatened to blow up the train.” The incident occurred on the Red Line at approximately 7:30 this morning. No one was hurt in the event, however, the Red Line was shut down for two hours for police investigation and a shuttle bus was established during that time. The train is now up and running. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 13, 2011
Mavericks are NBA champions, defeat star-studded Heat
The Dallas Mavericks won their first NBA championship in franchise history Sunday night, defeating the Miami Heat 105-95. Mavericks’ player Dirk Nowitzki received NBA Finals MVP. Miami lost after a season of championship expectations following the off-season signings of NBA superstars LeBron James and Chris Bosh. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 10, 2011
Thousands of Sarah Palin’s emails released
The Associated Press announced today that Alaska released thousands of pages of Sarah Palin’s emails that show the struggle Alaskan governor had as she battled family gossip as she rose to become G.O.P. vice president nominee. This release of information came moments before Palin tweeted a link to a Web page for her documentary “The Undefeated,” which documents her time as governor. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 10, 2011
Metro doors opening on wrong side of track
According to Metro, four times over the past month train operators have opened the doors on the wrong side of the track when stopping at stations. The latest happened Tuesday at Metro Center and though no one was hurt, the consequences of such a mistake could be catastrophic. The train doors open on an average of 126,000 times a day. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 10, 2011
Four Sky Express buses pulled over by police in D.C.
Four Sky Express buses were pulled over on the Capital Beltway Friday after someone tipped off their presence to police. According to police, the buses were being driven to North Carolina from New York by a repossession firm. Sky Express has been banned from the road after several deadly accidents in the past year led to their shutdown. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 9, 2011
Troops to remain in Iraq despite deadline, budget cuts
The next Pentagon chief, Leon Panetta stated today that America will have a presence in Iraq beyond the end of the year regardless of the fact that troops are expected to leave starting on Jan. 1. This announcement comes despite the fact that President Obama has slashed $400 billion from the Pentagon budget over the next 12 years. Said Panetta, “We are no longer in the Cold War. This is more like a blizzard war.” (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 9, 2011
Heat sends Md. students to hospitals
According to a spokeswoman for Charles County School District, several students were sent to the hospital today after suffering heat-related illnesses. Katie O’Malley Simpson, Charles County school spokeswoman, stated that eight students were sent to the hospital from Charles County while several other students from nearby St. Mary’s and Calvert Counties were also rushed to the hospital. Many schools in Maryland were closed early today due to rising heat temperatures. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 9, 2011
Obama speaks with Arizona governor about wildfires
Today, President Barack Obama contacted Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer to express his concerns about the raging wildfires that have plagued the western state. Currently, Arizona is experiencing a 525-square-mile blaze in the White Mountains—the second largest in state history. The two lawmakers spoke about delayed communication between the state and the White House regarding the wildfires. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 8, 2011
NATO states that no troops will be put on ground in Libya
According to NATO’s top officials, no troops will be put on the ground to keep the peace once the civil war in Libya ends. This announcement came after Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen spoke with the defense ministers of the 28 countries that make up NATO. According to Rasmussen, once the conflict ends, it will be up to the United Nations and not NATO to restore the peace. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 8, 2011
37,500 Sony employees have their information stolen
Sony Pictures Entertainment announced Wednesday that approximately 37,500 users had their personal information stolen in an attack by hackers last week. According to Sony, the Culver City, California-based company then instructed their employees to change their passwords. Apparently, Sony has been the victim of several such attacks in the past. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 8, 2011
F.B.I speaks before Congress on terrorism
In an announcement by the F.B.I. to Congress Wednesday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation stated that al-Qaida remains committed to attacking the United States. FBI Director Robert Mueller used his speech to extend his position for several more years. According to Mueller, Congress was extremely receptive of the director. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 6, 2011
Violence in Yemen capital jeopardizes cease-fire
A cease-fire put in place in the Yemen capital of Sanna was put in jeopardy after at least six opposition soldiers were killed yesterday by regime supporters. The violent clash raises uncertainty about the future of the country after wounded President Abdullah Saleh left Sanna, creating a battle for power. The fear is that if the president does return, it will “certainly re-ignite fighting.” (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 6, 2011
D.C. prison moved in part of redistricting plan
A new redistricting plan released by a board led by D.C. council members will move D.C. jail on D street from Ward 6 to Ward 7. The plan is the first redrawing of District lines in ten years. The prison, which holds 2,000 inmates, is expected to increase the population size of Ward 7 and decrease the population size of Ward 6. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 6, 2011
Rick Santorum enters presidential race
Rick Santorum, the former senator of Pennslyvania, reportedly declared his intentions to run in the 2012 White Hosue race, stating the he “wants to protect America from President Barack Obama. Santorum is the most recent canidate to enter the field, joining the likes of former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and the possibilty of Rep. Sarah Palin. Santorum is married with seven children and has been out of public office since 2007. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 3, 2011
Driver in fatal bus accident charged with manslaughter
The driver of the Sky Express bus that crashed and killed 4 passengers last week has been charged with four counts of involuntary manslaughter. Kin Yiu Cheung, 37, was driving the bus roughly 30 miles North of Richmond when he lost control while driving along I-95. Police say Cheung was fatigued. The new charges each carry a sentence of up to 10 years in prison. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 3, 2011
Infamous assisted suicide Dr. Kevorkian dies at 83
Assisted suicide supporter Dr. Jack Kevorkian died today at the age of 83. Kevorkian was a retired pathologist who gained the attention of the world after assisting in the suicide of dozens of ailing patients. As a result, Kevorkian was put in prison for murder and died recently after being hospitalized with a short illness. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 3, 2011
President Obama: “Economy faces challenges ahead”
At an event at an Ohio Chrysler plant to promote the resurgence of the American automotive industry, President Barak Obama stated that the economy faces challenges ahead, noting that there are “bumps on the road to recovery.” This all came amidst a dismal new job report that announced that unemployment is again on the climb. Despite Obama’s optimism, the auto industry also reported a falloff in May. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 2, 2011
War on drugs “slammed” by high-level international panel
According to the Associated Press, a high-level international panel criticized the current war on drugs and called for governments to create experiments to decriminalize certain drugs such as marijuana to “undermine the power of organized crime. The Global Commission on Drug Policy concluded that the “criminalization and repressive measures have failed with devastating consequences for individuals and societies around the world.” A recent petition provided by the commission collected nearly 600,000 signatures from around the world calling for the end of the war on drugs. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 2, 2011
3 dead, 200 hurt after tornados hit Mass.
Massachusetts is recovering after the northern state suffered the deadliest tornados in almost 20 years. At least three are dead and 200 hurt after a pair of tornados hit the town of Monson. A 135-year-old church was also badly damaged and the tornados reportedly affected more than a dozen communities in the central part of the state. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 2, 2011
Shaq retires a no-doubt hall-of-famer
Current Boston Celtics Center Shaquille O’Neal has retired after 19 years in the NBA. The 7-1 350 pound star was selected to 15 all-star games, won 4 titles and finishes his hall-of-fame career fifth all-time in points and second in field goal percentage. Shaq, 39, played for four different teams and won titles with the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 1, 2011
Endeavor successfully returns to Earth during late-night landing
The six astronauts aboard Space Shuttle Endeavor arrived safely back to Earth following a late night landing at Kennedy Space Station. Endeavor was the next-to-last mission in NASA’s 30 year space shuttle program. Fittingly, as Endeavor touched down, Space Shuttle Atlantis could be seen on the launch pad in the distance, preparing for the final space shuttle flight which will occur in roughly five weeks. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 1, 2011
Deadly Va. accident leads to shut down of bus company
Following a deadly bus accident outside Richmond, the bus company Sky Express has been shut down by the federal government. Four died and many more are injured including the driver who has been charged with reckless driving and police believe fatigue led to the accident. A report by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration discovered that Sky Bus had been cited for 46 violations in the last two years and has been involved in a series of accidents. (Read more: WTOP.com)
June 1, 2011
Nationals, mayor break ground on youth baseball facility
The Washington Nationals with Mayor Vincent Gray in attendance broke ground yesterday on the Nationals Youth Baseball Academy in Southeast D.C. The academy, which is directed at kids living near Wards 7 and 8, aims to motivate youth to play sports. The facility will include training rooms, educational work space, community rooms and of course three state-of-the-art baseball fields. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 31, 2011
Endeavor set to return one last time
Commander Mark Kelly and the crew of the Space Shuttle Endeavor expect to touchdown on Earth in the early hours on Wednesday morning, marking the final return flight of the spacecraft that will soon be retired. Endeavor’s trip into space as part of mission STS-134 was the second to final launch for the entire space shuttle program, with the expected summer launch of Atlantis set to be the final launch ever. Mark Kelly is the wife of Arizona Rep. Gabrielle Giffords who was shot in the head during a political rally in Tucson. She was present at the launch but will not be on-hand to witness the return flight. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 31, 2011
Syrian president issued general amnesty
In an effort to calm protests that have engulfed the country of Syria, Syrian President Bashar Assad has reportedly issued a general amnesty which was broadcasted on television. The president’s amnesty could affect 10,000 people including political prisoners and those rounded up by police during protests. Human rights activists are still upset because many of Bashar’s crackdowns in recent months led to the death of over 1,000 protesters. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 31, 2011
National Championship elusive for Maryland women’s and men’s lacrosse
Memorial Day weekend proved a tough one for the University of Maryland as both its women’s and men’s lacrosse teams fell in their respective national championship games. On Sunday, Northwestern avenged last year’s national championship loss to Maryland by winning this year, 8-7. On Memorial Day, the men’s lacrosse team came up short against Virginia at M & T Bank Stadium, losing 9-7. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 27, 2011
Obama signs Patriot Act extension
As the midnight deadline fast approached, President Barack Obama signed an extension that will continue the Patriot Act for four more years. According to the president, “[The Patriot Act is] an important tool for us to continue dealing with an ongoing terrorist threat.” The law, which was put into effect following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, allows for wiretaps and the serach of records in pursuit of terrorists. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 27, 2011
G-8 to give $20 billion to Middle East countries
According to the Associated Press, the G-8 (group of eight rich countries) is considering giving $20 billion to Egypt and Tunisia to support the countries that overthrew their government . Also on the agenda was Greece’s debt crisis and the slow monatary growth in the Middle East. The U.S. economy is expected to increase in the coming months.(Read more: WTOP.com)
May 27, 2011
Finale of “Oprah” most watched episode in 17 years
Early numbers predict that the finale of the “Oprah Show” drew the largest audience in 17 years. According to sources, the final episode garnered a 13.3 household rating, it’s biggest since 1994. The “Oprah Show” was on for 25 years. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 26, 2011
Top Md. official wants gas tax to drop during holidays
A top offical in Maryland has suggested that the state of Maryland drop gas taxes during holiday weekends. According to state Comptroller Peter Franchot, dropping the 23.5 cent gas tax would increase travel during holidays as well as boost the state’s economy. Said Franchot, “people are getting hammered by these high gas prices.” (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 26, 2011
Gunman who shot Rep. Giffords orderd to psychiatric facility
The Associated Press reports that U.S. District Judge Larry Burns, in an Arizon court, ordered Jared Lee Loughner, the suspect responsible for the Tucson rampage that killed six and wounded Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, to a psychiatric ward in Missouri, stating that the 22-year-old was not in the mental state to stand trial. According to mental health professionals, Loughner suffers from schizophrenia. At one point, shouting by Loughner during the trial prompted U.S. Marshalls to drag him from the courtroom. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 26, 2011
Redskins’ Haynesworth’s trial postponed
The trial of Redskins’ star Albert Haynesworth that stemmed from an alleged road rage assult in Northern Virginia has been postpone. The defensive tackle was scheduled to appear in court today but that trial is now set for next Tuesday. Police say a man accused Haynesworth of punching him after a traffic altercation on a Reston roadway. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 25, 2011
Two injured after shooting and carjacking near Metro stop
A man and a woman are recovering in a hospital after four men attacked them at the Largo Metro station early this morning. According to Metro, the woman was shot and the man was hit in the head. Police recovered a Chevrolet Corvette that the believed was the hijacked vehicle. The two victims are in the hospital and are in stable condition. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 25, 2011
“Oprah Winfrey Show” ends after 25 years
Today is the final episode of the “Oprah Winfrey Show,” and the episode, taped Tuesday, showed the host teary eyed as she sat alone on the stage talking with viewers. “Oprah” was on the air for 25 years. The final episode comes on the heels of a massive farewell extravaganza in Chicago where Hollywood Stars and major celebrities celebrated Oprah. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 25, 2011
Metro officers suspended following scuffle with handicapped man
Two Metro officers involved in a scuffle with a handicapped man last week are being suspended after video shows the two officers tackling and arresting him. The officers arrested the man for assault and drinking in public though, no video evidence shows signs that the suspect assaulted the officers. The man resisted a citation when officers discovered him drinking on a Metro platform. The assault charges have been dropped. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 24, 2011
Rescue crews looking for survivors following Joplin tornado
Following the deadliest U.S. tornado in 60 years, rescue crews are working around the clock in Joplin, Missouri to find suvivers. The cyclone, which measured nearly a mile wide and registered winds upwards of 200 MPH, toppled stores, leveled homes, and even destroyed a hospital. According to Associated Press, rescuers are sifting through the remains of big box stores such as Walmart and apartments seraching for people. The storm has killed at least 117 people though, 17 were rescued. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 24, 2011
President Obama visits Buckingham Palace
A day after his trip to Ireland, President Barack Obama was given a royal welcome at Buckingham Palace in London by Queen Elizabeth II. The president met with the queen, recent newlyweds Prince William and Kate Middleton and Prime Minister David Cameron. Obama used the visit to reassure Britain that America still values its alliance. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 24, 2011
Another Metro train runs through a red signal
A fifth Metro train in the past month has reportedly ran through a red signal according to Metro, despite the fact that a day before, Metro ordered a “safety stand down” due to red signal violations. Running a red signal could be potentially catastrophic. The torrent of ran red signals comes days after Metro Chief Safety Officer Jim Dougherty reportedly said such occurances were “rare.” (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 23, 2011
Massive tornado kills nearly 90 in Missouri
At least 89 are dead after what experts believe was an F-4 tornado that reached winds up to 165 MPH, tore through southwestern Missouri yesterday. Slashing through six miles of open ground, the tornado destroyed the city of Joplin, leveling a hospital, throwing cars, and annihilating houses. Parts of the hospital were reported found nearly 60 miles away. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 23, 2011
Handicapped man on Metro hospitalized after resisting arrest
A man in a wheel chair was taken to the hospital Thursday after police threw the subject to the ground and arrested him. The subject was reportedly drunk, drinking on a Metro platform and had a .30 blood alcohol level. The man refused a citation and resisted arrest according to WTOP.com. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 23, 2011
Student hurt during greased climb at Naval Academy
According to a Naval Academy Spokeswoman, a student was taken to the hospital after getting hurt during the traditional climb of the grease-covered 21-foot Herndon Monument at the U.S. Naval Academy. WTOP.com reports that a female Midshipman was taken away by an ambulance and was wearing a neck brace. The superintendent of the school decided to reinstate the climb after the traditional grease climb was canceled last year. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 20, 2011
Israeli prime minister meets with President Obama
A day after President Barack Obama addressed the uprising in the Middle East, the president met with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the White House Friday. The two leaders discussed the future of Israel and whether or not the country will withdraw to 1967 borders to help “make way for an adjacent Palestinian state.” Obama considers Israel “friends” and hopes that their differences can be fixed. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 20, 2011
Al-Qaida considered attacking oil tankers in terror plot
According to the U.S. government, the terrorist group al-Qaida considered targeting oil tankers in non-Muslim seas to create an “extreme economic crisis.” Officials are unsure of whether or not al-Qaida is still planning to hijack and detonate various oil tankers. The plot came from the documents left behind by the late Osama bin Laden. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 20, 2011
Teammate accuses Lance Armstrong of using PEDs
In an interview with “60 Minutes, Tyler Hamilton, a former teammate of seven-time Tour de France cyclist Lance Armstrong, admitted that Armstrong used performance-enhancing drugs during his career. Armstrong reacted to the allegations by tweeting, “20+ year career. 500 drug controls worldwide, in and out of competition. Never a failed test. I rest my case.” According to the Associated Press, there is a federal investigation into whether or not Armstrong used steroids. (Read more: WTOP.com)
18, 2011
D.C. police under investigation for celebrity escorts
A report by the Associated Press shows that D.C. police gave high-speed police escorts to celebrities such as Bill Gates and Jay-Z much like they did for Charlie Sheen earlier this year. The police force was highly criticized for Sheen’s escort and now an investigation into the series of escorts is underway. The Associated Press accessed the information through the Freedom of Information Act. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 18, 2011
U.S. hands Syria sanctions
The United States has handed out sanctions to Syrian President Bashar Assad and six senior Syrian officials for violating human rights and abusing human rights during their anti-government crackdown. The sanction will make it illegal for America to do business with Syria. The sanctions come a day before President Barack Obama will deliver a major speech on Middle East uprisings. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 18, 2011
Dog attacks students at bus stop; shot by police
A dog in Clinton, Md. was shot today by police after the animal reportedly attacked several children waiting for the school bus. In an attempt to escape the dog, the children climbed onto the bus where the dog followed and continued to bite and scratch the students. Neighbors watched in horror as the dog then chased kids off the bus before finally being shot three times by police. The dog had no collar and is being tested for rabies. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 17, 2011
Jack Johnson pleads guilty to federal charges
Former Prince George’s County Executive Jack Johnson has reportedly pleaded guilty to federal charges of witness and evidence tampering and extortion. The admission comes six months after Johnson was overheard on the phone by the F.B.I. ordering his wife to flush a $100,000 check down the toilet and hide nearly $80,000 in her underwear. Johnson could face decades in prison. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 17, 2011
Schwarzenegger fathered child with staff member; cheated on Maria Shriver
Former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger reportedly fathered a child with a family staff member, prompting wife Maria Shriver to leave the household before the couple announced their separation last week. According to Shriver, it is a “heartbreaking time.” The couple was married for 25 years. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 17, 2011
National Zoo panda may be pregnant
According to the National Zoo, the panda Mei Xiang could be pregnant after hormone levels in the bear were tested high. The panda is expected to give birth in July. The zoo has not yet reportedly found a fetus. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 16, 2011
Endeavor flies one last mission
Early this morning, Space Shuttle Endeavor successfully blasted off for the International Space Station, marking the last launch ever for Endeavor and the second to last launch for the Space Shuttle Program which is retiring later this summer. Shortly after liftoff, Commander Mark Kelly aboard the Endeavor, reported, “This mission represents the power of teamwork, commitment and exploration.” He added, “It is in the DNA of our great country to reach for the stars.” (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 16, 2011
Government hits debt limit
Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner announced today that the U.S. government has officially reached its debt limit. According to Geithner, he has immediately halted to major government pension plans so that the government can continue to borrow money. The latest estimate is that Washington borrows 40 cents for every dollar it spends. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 16, 2011
VRE installing elite police to guard trains
Following Osama bin Laden’s reported intentions to target trains, the Virginia Railway Express is adding elite police officers in an effort to prevent a possible terrorist attack. The VRE is adding police officers on the trains, at stations and in parking facilities in order to patrol the railway. According to spokesperson Mark Roeber, the elite police will be randomly placed and hard to detect making it difficult for potential terrorists. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 12, 2011
Taliban retaliate for death of bin Laden
Two suicide bombs exploded in Pakistan today, killing at least 80 in what the Taliban call retaliation for the death of al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden by U.S. forces earlier this month. The blasts occurred outside a paramilitary recruiting base where trainees were returning home for break after months of training. At least 10 vans were destroyed in the blast and the street was littered with glass and blood. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 12, 2011
Tolls to jump in Maryland
A finance committee on Thursday involving the Maryland Transit Authority revealed the state’s plan to hike up the price of tolls over the next two years. The proposed tolls are part of a package that would affect the Bay Bridge, Baltimore harbor crossings, Tydings Memorial Bridge between Harford and Cecil County and other toll facilities. The rise in tolls is part of a $210 million package that could see toll prices jump as high as $8. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 12, 2011
Facebook caught slandering Google
In an effort to smear Google, Facebook reportedly hired a prominent public relations firm to plant harsh stories about Google’s private practices. The act is yet another episode in the running rivalry between the Silicon Valley internet competitors. Apparently, the efforts by Facebook backfired when the firm approached a blogger to do the assignment. The blogger declined and then publically announced the offer. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 12, 2011
Bin Laden’s journal reveals plans for terror attacks
U.S. Navy SEALS acquired the private diary of Osama bin Laden when the small task force captured and killed the al Qaeda leader earlier this month. The F.B.I. reports that bin Laden’s writings in the journal reveal the terrorist mastermind’s future plans and noted that his writings explained how to successfully bypass counter terrorist officials. Through his writings, bin Laden reportedly instructed his followers to attack small cities and insured them that another event such as 9/11 would force the United States out of the Middle East. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 12, 2011
Two Metro trains run red signals in the same month
According to Metro, two Metro trains have reportedly ran through red signals in the past month—a troubling revelation considering the seriousness of the incident. WTOP.com reports that a Metro train running a red signal is the equivalent of a car running a red light, just on a much greater scale, with much graver consequences. Metro confirmed that both incidents happened in the same place and that no one was hurt. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 12, 2011
Mary Tyler Moore to have brain surgery A representative close to Mary Tyler Moore has reportedly confirmed that the successful sitcom star will undergo surgery to remove a brain tumor. Alla Plotkin, the representative for Moore, stated that doctors moved to have the surgery after monitoring the tumor for some time. The 74-year-old gained celebrity as the housewife in the 1960s comedy, “The Dick Van Dyke Show” before headlining her own successful show. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 11, 2011
Congress members allowed to view photos of bin Laden According to Heather Molino, a spokeswoman for U.S. Rep. C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger, several lawmakers have been offered the opportunity to view the photos of Osama bin Laden’s body. Ruppersberger is a member of the House Intelligent Committee which has been invited by the White House to view the photos. The photographs of bin Laden have been kept from the public for fear of backlash by bin Laden supporters. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 11, 2011
Walter Reed to move 400 patients in one day Historic Walter Reed Army Medical Hospital is facing the daunting task of moving the facility to a brand new state-of-the-art building five minutes away. The hospital plans to do the move in one day, transporting roughly 400 patients in a fleet of ambulances. The hospital will share the new building with the National Navy Medical Center in Bethesda. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 11, 2011
Flooding does major damage in Mississippi and Tennessee
As the Mississippi River continues to swell, crews are working around the clock to shore up levees as floodwater threatens to swamp much of the Mississippi Delta. In Memphis, Tenn., many communities are under water while levees elsewhere have prevented parts of the city and Graceland to remain dry. There has been approximately $320 million in damage done to the city. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 10, 2011
Boehner questions Pakistan’s allegiance
Speaker of the House John Boehner said today in an interview that the time has come for the United States and Pakistan to look each other in the eye and decide “if we’re really going to be allies” and fight terrorism together. Boehner speech comes after the killing of al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden in Pakistan earlier this month. Questions regarding the harboring of bin Laden by Pakistan have rose in the wake of the terrorist leader’s death in a mansion near the Pakistan capitol. (Read more: WTOP.com) May 10, 2011 Schwarzenegger and Shriver to separate after 25 years of marriage According to Associated Press, former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and his wife Maria Shriver, the niece of President John F. Kennedy, have agreed to separate after 25 years of marriage. In a joint statement released Monday, the couple stated that it is a “time of great personal and professional transition for each of us.” The couple married in 1986 in a “story-book wedding” in Cape Cod, Ma. (Read more: WTOP.com) May 10, 2011 Turgeon to replace Gary Williams The University of Maryland has announced that Mark Turgeon, who coached four years at Texas A&M, will replace Gary Williams as head coach of the Terrapins basketball team. Turgeon accepted the position Monday after Maryland reached out to a number of other coaches. Turgeon has made the NCAA Tournament every year he’s coached at Texas A&M. Williams coached at Maryland for 22 years. (Read more: WTOP.com) May 9, 2011 Al Qaeda pledges allegiance to Zawahri In the wake of Osama bin Laden’s death, al Qaeda has reaffirmed its support for the terrorist’s group second-in-command Ayman al-Zawahri. In the week since bin Laden’s death at the hands of Navy SEALs, there is confusion about whether Zawahri will indeed take over the terrorist network. In a recent statement, al Qaeda warned the U.S. of another terrorist attack in the immediate future. (Read more: WTOP.com) May 9, 2011 Newt Gingrich running for president According to Associated Press, former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich has confirmed that he is running for president in 2012. The Republican candidate announced his intentions during a time when the field of G.O.P candidates is very low. The 67-year-old intends to speak to the public Wednesday on FOX News.(Read more: WTOP.com) May 9, 2011
Animal Kingdom to race at Preakness The Preakness Stakes in Baltimore, Md. is two weeks away and Animal Kingdom, the winning horse of Saturday’s Kentucky Derby is expected to run as it pursues the Triple Crown. Animal Kingdom won the Kentucky Derby, beating out horses Nehro and Mucho Macho Man. Animal Kingdom was the first horse in the 137-year history of the Kentucky Derby to win in his debut on dirt. (Read more: WTOP.com) May 6, 2011 Al Qaeda vows revenge Following the recent death of al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, remaining members of the terrorist group have reportedly vowed revenge. Al Qaeda confirmed the death of bin Laden and then added that American “happiness will turn to sadness.” The news broke as documents found in bin Laden’s Pakistan mansion revealed a plan for derailing a train on the 10th anniversy of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. (Read more: WTOP.com) May 6, 2011 Suspicious letters sent to D.C. schools According to the F.B.I, more than three dozen suspicous letters resembling letters under investigation in Dallas have been delivered to 28 District of Columbia schools. The envelopes contain a white, powdery substance. The letters reportedly refer to al Qaeda. (Read more: WTOP.com) May 6, 2011 Gary Williams retires After 22 years as University of Maryland’s head basketball coach, Gary Williams is retiring. The 66-year-old appeared in 14 NCAA tournaments and won the 2002 National Championship. A hall-of-fame worty coach, Williams is credited with resurrecting Maryland basketball. (Read more: WTOP.com) May 5, 2011 Obama pays visit to Ground Zero President Barack Obama paid a visit to Ground Zero in New York City today to honor those who died in the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The president laid down a wreath to commemorate the more than three thousand people that lost their lives to the deadliest terrorist attack in American history. Said Obama, “when we say we will never forget, we mean what we say.” (Read more: WTOP.com) May 5, 2011 Retaliation by terrorists in wake of bin Laden’s death “pretty high” According to D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier, the chances of retaliation by terrorists is “pretty high” following the recent killing of al Quaeda leader Osama bin Laden. Police have reportedly upped security in expectation of an attack. In recent days, police presence at Metro stations in D.C. have also increased. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 5, 2011
Washington eliminated from NHL playoffs The top-seeded Washington Capitals made an early bow from the playoffs Wednesday night after suffering a series sweep at the hands of the Tamp Bay Lightening, losing game four 5-3. The elimination from the Eastern Conference playoffs by Washington is yet another bitter post-season frustration for a team that entered the playoffs seeded first for the second straight season. According to General Manager George McPhee, he expects Caps’ coach Bruce Boudreau to return next season. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 4, 2011
Obama decides to not release photos of bin Laden
President Barack Obama appeared on CBS’s “60 Minutes” Wednesday and announced that the White House would not be releasing the photos of slain Osama bin Laden. Obama feared that pictures would be too gruesome and inflammatory. U.S. forces assaulted the Pakistan mansion where bin Laden was staying and shot the al Qaeda leader in the head. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 4, 2011
Explosion in Rockville home leaves two wounded A house explosion in Rockville early Wednesday morning left a man and a woman critically injured. The explosion was heard two miles away and left the house nothing but a pile of rubble. Montgomery County Assistant Fire Chief Scott Graham stated that, “there is debris probably within 50 yards of the home in any direction, about 35 feet up into the trees.” (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 4, 2011
First Lady shows off dance moves at local middle school
As part of her Let’s Move! Campaign, First Lady Michelle Obama orchestrated a dancing event at Alice Deal Middle School in Washington D.C. Wednesday. Along with a row of students and a Viking mascot, Mrs. Obama also danced, showing off her moves. The group performed on the school’s playing field to a popular song by Beyonce. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 3, 2011
Photos of dead Osama bin Laden may be released
A White House report released today acknowledged that Osama bin Laden was unarmed when confronted by U.S. commandos in his Pakistani mansion but that the leader of al Qaeda “resisted the assault.” The White House is also reportedly considering releasing the photos of bin Laden after he was killed but are concerned of their graphic nature. bin Laden was reportedly shot above the eye. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 3, 2011
Pakistan criticizing American raid to catch Osama bin Laden According to the Associated Press, Pakistan officials are criticizing the United States raid that led to the death of Osama bin Laden. Pakistan is reportedly questioning the elements surrounding the mission to catch the most wanted terrorist alive. Pakistan officials did confirm cooperating with the C.I.A. in hunting for bin Laden. (Read more: WTOP.com) May 3, 2011 Maryland teacher rewarded National Teacher of the Year President Barack Obama will welcome Urbana High School teacher Michelle Shearer to the White House Tuesday to reward the Frederick area teacher with the 2011 National Teacher of the Year Award. Shearer, a chemistry teacher, will be honored in a rose garden ceremony. Winners of each state teacher of the year will also be present. (Read more: WTOP.com) May 2, 2011
Osama bin Laden dead
Osama bin Laden, the face of terrorism and the mastermind behind the September 11 terrorist attacks is dead according to President Barack Obama. Speaking to the United States shortly after 11 p.m. last night, Obama announced that the head of the al Quaeda terrorist group had been shot and killed by a small task force of U.S. Navy Seals in a mansion deep in Pakistan. Celebrations erupted across the country, including at the White House and Ground Zero, following the news of bin Laden’s death. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 2, 2011
Metro, MTA on high alert after bin Laden’s death
Metro and the Maryland Transit Authority have boosted security following the announcement by President Barack Obama that al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden had been killed in Pakistan. The transit agencies fear retaliation from terrorist groups who may react violently to the death of bin Laden who is considered the face of terrorism. According to MTA, there has been an increase of patrol officers and undercover police officers. (Read more: WTOP.com)
May 2, 2011 Final launch of Endeavor scrubbed until at least Sunday
In a statement released by NASA, the final launch of space shuttle Endeavor has been postponed until at least next Sunday. Originally scheduled to launch Friday, April 29, NASA scrubbed the launch after technical problems kept the shuttle from going on its final journey. Endeavor’s mission is to deliver equipment to the International Space Station. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 28, 2011 At least 248 dead after deadliest outbreak of storms in 40 years
In the deadliest outbreak of storms in nearly 40 years, at least 248 people are dead following a series of storms that swept through six Southern states. The storm flattened whole neighborhoods, destroyed businesses and left many homeless. “We have neighborhoods that have been basically removed from the map,” said Tuscaloosa Mayor Walter Maddox. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 28, 2011
Final launch of Endeavour brings thousands of tourists to Florida Thousands of tourists are flooding the Florida coast in anticipation of launch of the space shuttle Endeavour on Friday. The launch will be the last ever for the Endeavour and the second-to-last for the NASA space program. President Barack Obama and family will be in attendance. The Endeavour launch is expected to generate close to $15 million along the Space Coast. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 28, 2011
NFL lifts lockout; prepares for draft tonight on ESPN Hours before the NFL draft which is being held tonight on ESPN, the NFL told its teams to resume football operations for the first time since a lockout prohibited any football-related business. This could all change depending on how the league fares in court. According to the Associated Press, the NFL is asking for the lockout to be reinstated (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 27, 2011
Obama confronts issue of birth certificate Interrupting morning news shows on various networks, President Barack Obama addressed the nation today and responded to the never-ending claims by critics that he was not born in this country. While the screen flashed images of his birth certificate that shows he was born in a Hawaii hospital, Obama called for an end to all this “silliness” and stated that the nation does not have the time for “sideshows and carnival barkers.” (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 27, 2011
Half a million tickets given out to speeding motorists in last 17 months Nearly 500,000 tickets have been issued by the state of Maryland since state law enforcement put into action the Safe Zone Program nearly 17 months ago. The Safe Zone Program involves cameras on the sides of major highways snapping photos of vehicles going more than 12 mph over the designated speed limit and then sending the driver a $40 ticket in the mail. According to Maryland State Highway Administrator Neil Pedersen, the cameras reduce the chance of accidents in roadside work zones. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 27, 2011
Former Md. Gov. Schaefer laid to rest; leaves legacy behind The funeral for former Maryland governor and Baltimore mayor William Donald Schaefer was held today at Old St. Paul’s Church in Baltimore, MD. The 89-year-old was remembered as a leader who brought integrity to the job. Schaefer’s service was broadcast live on television before the former mayor and governor was buried at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens in Timonium next to his former aid Hilda Mae Snoops. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 26, 2011
Census reveals that more women have advanced degrees than men According to the most recent census, for the first time ever women outnumber men in earning advanced degrees. Findings reveal that the increase in scholarly women stems from a decline in stay-at-home-mothers and a rise in women in the work force. Statistics revealed that 10.6 million women 25 years or older have earned a master’s degree or higher compared to 10.5 million men. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 26, 2011
Stabbing disrupts Family Tradition event at National Zoo A 16-year-old is being tried as an adult following a stabbing at the National Zoo during the annual Easter Monday: An African American Family Tradition. The suspect has been charged with assault and intent to kill following a fight that broke out in the zoo and then continued outside the park. The victim is recovering at Children’s Hospital. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 26, 2011
Snyder demands apology from Washington paper Redskins owner Dan Snyder will reportedly drop his lawsuit against the Washington City Paper if the newspaper publicly apologizes and retracts what Snyder calls “false and reckless claims” made against him in an article. The Washington City Paper is intending to stand behind the reporter that wrote the article, stating that the suit is “frivolous.” Snyder has given the paper a few days to make their decision. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 25, 2011
Death toll rising after Syrian military cracks down on revolt Syrian crackdown on rebels escalated Monday when thousands of soldiers entered the city of Beirut backed by tanks and began opening fire on civilians, killing at least 11. Activists say that the death toll could rise as bodies continue to be discovered scattered and bloody in the streets. The offensive was reportedly planned, with electric, water and mobile phone services disconnected while neighborhood house-to-house sweeps were conducted. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 25, 2011
WikiLeaks publication reveals new info; allows glimpse into Guantanamo Bay
Details into more than 700 interrogations at Guantanamo Bay prison were revealed after major American and European news outlets obtained the files from WikiLeaks. The publications shined light on the 172 detainees still held at the Cuban prison, many of which are labeled “high risk” prisoners and believed to be terrorists. The U.S. Government disapproved of the publication, stating it was “unfortunate.” (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 25, 2011 Maryland honors William Donald Schaefer More than one hundred Maryland residents came to the State House in Annapolis Monday to pay their respects to former governor and Baltimore mayor William Donald Schaefer. Schaefer lies in repose at the State House. On Tuesday, his casket will be taken on a motorcade through the city of Baltimore where he was mayor from 1971 to 1981. A public viewing will be held at Baltimore City Hall from 6 to 9 p.m. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 22, 2011
McCain calls for increased support for Libyan rebels
Former presidential hopeful U.S. Senator John McCain was in Libya Friday calling for increased support for the Libyan rebels. McCain is asking for increased military aid as well as further airstrikes and training for Libyan rebels. The White House reportedly disagrees with McCain’s speech. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 22, 2011
Fairfax Country to consider law suit vs. Pentagon
Fairfax County is considering a law suit after the Pentagon announced that it is transferring nearly 6,000 employees to Crystal City, which has Metro access, to the Mark Center in Alexandria, which does not. Fairfax Co. reportedly fears a “traffic nightmare” and the county board will discuss its options in a closed-door meeting on Tuesday. In a report issued by the Pentagon’s inspector general, the Army had no idea the effect of moving so many workers would have. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 22, 2011
Charlie Sheen’s D.C. escort under investigation
The police escort for Charlie Sheen on his way to show in downtown Washington D.C. is under investigation after the star reportedly tweeted that he was “In car with Police escort in front and rear!” along with a picture showing the speedometer at 80 mph. Authorities are reportedly looking into how Sheen acquired a high-speed escort. D.C. Council member Phil Mendelson, who chairs the council’s committee on public safety, stated that he did not authorize the escort. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 21, 2011
Japan seals off area around power plant
In an effort to prevent tens of thousands of Japanese residents from sneaking back to their homes, officials have sealed off a wide area around the stricken nuclear power plant that continues to spew radiation. Many of the evacuees left with nothing more than the clothes on their back and continued to make trips to their abandoned homes right up until the ban took effect. About 80,000 people were evacuated from a 12-mile radius on March 12, a day after an earthquake and tsunami crippled the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 21, 2011
Nation-wide smoking bans expected by 2020
According to federal health officials, every state may have bans on smoking by 2020. This will include prohibiting smoking in restaurants, bars and the workplace. Currently there are 26 states that have banned smoking. Tobacco smoke is a leading cause of lung cancer and contributes to heart disease and other health problems. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 21, 2011
Michael Jackson’s autopsy photos may be used in trial
Images from Michael Jackson’s autopsy may be shown by prosecutors during the involuntary manslaughter trial of the pop signer’s physician according to a judge ruling on Thursday. There are two images of Jackson, one of him clothed and one of him nude. Dr. Conrad Murray is on trial for his involvement in Jackson’s 2009 death. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 20, 2011
FAA aborts Obama’s landing; investigation pending
The Federal Aviation Administration suffered another embarrassment today when it was reported that the plane carrying Michelle Obama and Jill Biden, wife of vice president Joe Biden, had an aborted landing as it tried to land at Andrews Air Force Base. According to the FAA, the Boeing 737 carrying the first lady came with in three miles of a C-17 Cargo plane that was also landing at the air base. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 20, 2011
Vigils mark 1 year anniversary of Gulf of Mexico oil spill
Quiet prayer vigils were held today on the shore of the Gulf of Mexico as relatives and friends gathered to remember the 11 that died in the explosion of the BP oil rig one year ago today. President Barack Obama has vowed to hold BP and others accountable for death and damage they have caused. The explosion led to the largest oil spill in American history. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 20, 2011
NFL honoring 10 year anniversary of September 11 attacks
The Washington Redskins will host the New York Giants on September 11 this season to honor the 10th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. The game will open up the 2011 NFL season and the league hopes that by having two teams play from the cities most affected by the 9/11 attacks, the nation will be able to focus on those who lost their lives in the attacks. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 19, 2011
Unemployment down in majority of the country According to the labor department, unemployment fell in two-thirds of the states last month, an encouraging sign for the nation that the economy is getting stronger. In March, 34 states reported that unemployment dropped while nine other states reported that unemployment stayed the same. Nationally, the unemployment rate for March fell to 8.8 percent—a two-year low. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 19, 2011
Japan pumping radioactive water from crippled nuclear plant Operators of the Japanese Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant have begun pumping highly radioactive water from the basement of one of the facilities buildings to a makeshift storage unit in an effort to ease the nuclear crisis. Officials are removing 25,000 metric tons (about 6.6 million gallons) of radioactive water which will help in restoring power to the crippled nuclear site. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 19, 2011
Kindergartner brings gun to school
A kindergartner in Texas was one of three injured after the student brought a loaded gun to his Houston school. The gun dropped out of the student’s pocket in the cafeteria during lunch time, accidentally going off and sending fragments into the air. No student was seriously hurt, though two were reported to have suffered foot injuries. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 18, 2011
Flooding forces many to evacuate Georgetown Restaurants and shops along the Georgetown waterfront have been evacuated by emergency crews due to flooding from the Potomac River. D.C. fire department spokesman Pete Piringer reported that there was a problem raising the flood gates. A coastal flood warning has been issued throughout the day due to the fact that river water is several feet above normal. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 18, 2011
Death toll rising in south At least 44 people across six states are dead after a viscous storm hit the southern United States over the weekend. The storm knocked down power lines, destroyed homes and tossed car. It was reported that a tornado passed near the Dominion Virginia Power nuclear plant. (Read more: WTOP.com)
Stocks drop to lowest point in a month Stocks plunged the lowest they’ve been a month Monday after the Standard & Poor’s agency announced that it might lower its ratings in light of U.S. government debt. Investors were caught off guard due in part because U.S. government bonds are often seen as the benchmark for the safest kind of debt. If this trend continues, the U.S. government will have to borrow more money in order to issue bonds. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 14, 2011
Official in FAA resigns in wake of sleeping air traffic controllers Hank Krakowski, the head overseer of the nation’s Air Traffic Organization reportedly resigned after several air traffic controllers were caught sleeping on the job in recent months. The Federal Aviation Administration is conducting a “top-to bottom” evaluation of the entire system. David Grizzle, FAA’s chief council, will temporarily replace Krakowski. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 14, 2011
Metro may close bus routes, reduce trains on weekends To help compensate for a $72 million budget gap, Metro has announced that it may eliminate bus routes and reduce the frequency of trains on weekends. According to Metro, trains may run every 18 minutes instead of every 12 minutes. Signs also point toward the closing down of bus lines E6, K1 and N8 due in part to low ridership. (Read More: WTOP.com)
April 13, 2011
Obama to deliver speech tonight President Barack Obama will deliver a speech tonight that will cover the current state of the economy and set the framework for how the president plans to lead the nation out of debt. Despite facing resistance from Republicans and Democrats, Obama intends to take on politically sensitive topics such as health care and tax increases. Obama’s speech comes days after Congress agreed on a $38 billion spending cuts package for the upcoming fiscal year. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 13, 2011
Discovery to put on display at Smithsonian NASA has announced that the space shuttle Discovery will be put on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Va. just outside Dulles Airport. The Smithsonian must pay $28.8 million to transport the shuttle to its new home. The spaceship Enterprise is expected to move to New York City in anticipation of Discovery. (Read more: WTOP.com)
April 13, 2011
Caps to face Rangers in first round of playoffs The opening round of the NHL playoffs begins tonight when the Washington Capitals host the New York Rangers. Fans, rocking red, are expected to fill the Verizon Center tonight as the Caps look to avenge last season’s early bow from the post-season. The puck drops at 7:30. (Read More: WTOP.com) April 12, 2011
Japan disaster as bad as Chernobyl
Japan released a statement today stating that the recent nuclear disaster at the Fukushima Dai-ichi plant is the second worst in history and on scale with the 1986 Chernobyl disaster. Officials continue to restore cooling systems at the plant that were disabled following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, meanwhile, radiation continues to be found in tap water, fish, and vegetables. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 12, 2011 Mayor Gray arrested for protesting D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray was one of six council members and one of 41 people arrested Monday for protesting Congress’ recent decision to take away autonomy granted to Washington. The mayor spent seven hours in jail and upon his release, stated that he was proud of his demonstration and will continue to protest what he calls “taxation without representation.” (Read more: WTOP.com) April 12, 2011 Mubarak hospitalized with heart condition According to State TV, former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has been hospitalized for heart problems at a Red Sea resort. The 82-year-old was checked into a health center the same day that he was scheduled for questioning by prosecutors about corruption and violence. Mubarak was ousted as leader of Egypt following a large-scale protest featuring thousands of Egyptian citizens in February. (Read More: WTOP.com) April 11, 2011 Obama to deliver speech on spending plan President Barack Obama, in a speech on Wednesday, will lay out a broad blue print of the nation’s spending plan. The speech will describe how the White House plans to reduce the nation’s debt and cover the current state of the economy. Obama’s speech comes less than a week after Democrats and Republicans fought over funding through Sept. 30, the end of the fiscal year. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 11, 2011 Death toll mounts in Syria The death toll in Syria has risen to 170 after a student at Damascus University in the nation’s capital was killed during a protest of the country’s authoritarian regime.The United Nations and major European powers have denounced a recent crackdown by the Syrian president to quell the uprising. Syria is the most recent country in the Middle East to be torn in half by rebellion. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 11, 2011 Northern Va. man sentenced to prison for Metro terrorist plot Farooque Ahmed of Ashburn of Northern Va. was sentenced today to 23 years in prison after pleading guilty to joining what he thought was an al-Qaida plan to bomb the D.C. Metro. Ahmed pleaded guilty to providing material support to al-Qaida and collecting information for a terrorist attack on a transit facility. The group he thought was al-Quaida turned out to be a government agency on a six-month sting movement. (Read More: WTOP.com) April 8, 2011 Obama convinced there will be a government shutdown The deadline for a federal government shutdown looms as budget-related issues go unresolved. Democrats and Republicans have yet to reach an agreement regarding budget cuts and no solution is in sight. Said President Barack Obama, “the machinery of a shutdown [are]already in motion.” (Read more: WTOP.com) April 8, 2011 Kennedy family breaks ground on Kennedy Institute in Boston Members of the Kennedy family and others attended the ceremonious groundbreaking of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute in Boston. The site, which is next to the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum, is being built to promote citizen participation in democracy and is named for Edward Kennedy, who served in the U.S. Senate for 47 years until his death in 2009. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 8, 2011 Donald Trump buys winery in Va. According to several media outlets, billionaire and 2012 Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has reportedly purchased the Kluge Estate Winery and Vineyards in Charlottesville, Va. Trump officials stated that he is interested in making his own wines. The winery sold for nearly $7.5 million and was purchased at a foreclosure auction. (Read More: WTOP.com) April 7, 2011 Obama has no problem vetoing GOP budget extension plan President Barack Obama announced today that he has no problem vetoing the GOP budget extension plan because he feels that it will distract from the overall goal of agreeing upon a spending plan that works for both parties. The statement came after another day of fruitless negotiation in which a budget had yet to be created. The House has until Friday to agree to prevent a government shutdown. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 7, 2011 Baltimore area tutoring firm convicted of fraud Tracy Queen, the owner of a Reisterstown tutoring firm, has been convicted of billing Baltimore public schools for thousands of hours of tutoring that never took place. Prosecutors stated that Queen billed city schools for more than $150,000 over three years for educating 25o students for 4000 hours. Queen’s sentencing is in June and the owner faces a $15,000 fine and up to 15 years in prison. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 7, 2011 Prince Charles visiting D.C. in May The office of Prince Charles has reported that the heir to Britain’s throne will visit Washington D.C. in May to briefly visit with President Barack Obama. Prince Charles will also reportedly give a keynote speech at Georgetown University at a conference on sustainable agriculture. (Read More: WTOP.com) 6, 2011 Obama warns that government shutdown will hurt economy In a message delivered today, President Barack Obama warned the nation that a federal government shutdown will seriously undercut the economic recovery. According to the president, pay will be delayed to American troops, tax returns will slow and there will be a limit on government-guaranteed mortgages and small business loans. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 6, 2011 Dulles Airport to have underground Metro station The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority voted 9-4 today to build an underground Metro station at Dulles International Airport. The station is expected to cost $300 million to build and take 6 months longer than if the station had been built above ground. According to the MWAA, the decision to build the station underground was to make the station more user-friendly and 600 feet closer to the airport. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 6, 2011 Glen Beck’s show dropped by FOX According to FOX News, Glen Beck’s show will be dropped at the end of the year due to financial reasons and low ratings. Beck was highly popular when he joined the network in 2008, but following recent statements and a desire for 400 FOX advertisers to not have their commercials on Beck’s show, the networks has moved to remove the controversial political host. (Read More: WTOP.com) April 5, 2011 Former Virginia governor running for Senate Former Virginia governor and current Democratic National Committee Chairman Tim Kaine announced today that he plans to run for the U.S. Senate in the next election. Sighting the need for a strong country, Kaine plans to run his campaign on the promise of meeting today’s challenges. “I know that Washington can learn a few things from Virginia,” Kaine said. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 5, 2011 Congress and the White House fail to reach a budget deal House Speaker John Boehner left a private meeting with President Barack Obama Tuesday unable to agree on a budget deal that will keep the government from shutting down on Friday. The Democratic and Republican parties are still no where close to reaching a deal on the amount of spending cuts. Currently, the budget is an estimated $1.2 trillion. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 5, 201 Southwest Airlines recalls nearly 80 planes after in-air accident Boeing recalled nearly 80 planes for inspection after 5 were discovered with cracks in the roof. The company became aware of the problem after the roof of an American Airlines 747 jet ripped open 34,000 feet above Arizona. Pilots of the plane were forced to make an emergency landing. (Read More: WTOP.com) April 4, 2011 Obama announces re-election bid Monday marked the official start of President Barack Obama’s re-election bid and the president is again running on a campaign of change. The launching of his campaign comes on the heals of a major budget fight with Congress, unrest in the Middle East and continual economic troubles. Obama currently faces no primary challenger. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 4, 2011 Nuns back out from buying D.C. papal center According to the Detroit Free Press, an order of nuns from Ann Arbor, Mich have backed out of purchasing the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center in D.C. Originally, the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist had agreed upon a purchase price with the Archdiocese of Detroit to purchase the Catholic building but due to insufficient funds, have back out. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 4, 201 Butler to face UConn in National Championship For the second consecutive year, Butler will be playing for a National Championship, only this year, the Bulldogs hope the outcome will be different after Butler lost to Duke in the National Championship last year 61-59. Connecticut enters having not lost a game since its season finale and aims to continue that streak. This season marked the first time in the history of the tournament that no No. 1 or No. 2 seeds failed to make the Final Four.(Read More: WTOP.com) April 1, 2011 Obama believes lawmakers are close to agreement on budget According to President Barack Obama, Democrats and Republicans are close to reaching an agreement on the amount of budget cuts needed to avoid a governmental shutdown. In order to not reach a shutdown, lawmakers must reach an agreement by April 8, however, Obama is confident that both parties will come to terms before the deadline. Spending cuts are expected to reach about $33 billion. (Read more: WTOP.com) April 1, 2011 Libyan official in talks with Britain An official with the Libyan government held talks with Britain and desires conferences with the United States and France in an effort to reach a cease-fire that would end the airstrikes by U.N. forces. Said Former Libyan Prime Minister Abdul-Ati al-Obeidi, “We are trying to talk to the British, the French and the Americans to stop the killing of people. We are trying to find a mutual solution.” (Read more: WTOP.com) April 1, 201 Police arrest man accused of groping women on Metro Transit Police have arrested a man accused of groping women on the Metro. According to a victim, the man was assaulting women on the Yellow Line out of L’Enfant Plaza Station. Police arrested him while he was attempting to grope another woman. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 31, 2011 Radiation keeps officials from finding dead Leaking radiation from the stricken Fukushima nuclear power plant is keeping officials from recovering thousands of people that died during the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan. According to officials, the radiation has been measured at 10,000 times the standard health limit. 7,000 of an expected 19,000 bodies are yet to be recovered. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 31, 2011 Naval Academy expels 12 students According to an academy spokesman, 12 Midshipmen have reportedly been expelled for using or possessing synthetic marijuana. The Midshipmen involved were all found using or possessing “spice” which gives users a “marijuana-like” high and is banned by the Defense Department of the Navy. “Spice” is sold in drug paraphernalia shops as well as online. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 31, 2011 Opening Day for the Washington Nationals A sold-out crowd attended Nationals Park today to cheer on the Washington Nationals despite rainy and cold conditions. The stadium opened at 10:30 a.m. to welcome in fans as the Nats take on the Atlanta Braves. Metro expects at least 20,000 to use the Metro to get to and from the game. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 30, 2011 Experts concerned about seafood radiation Experts are concerned about seafood radiation in the waters off Japan as nuclear particles continue to leak from the stricken Fukushima power plant. Despite Japan’s adamant assurances that the radiation poses no threat, tests done in ocean water 300 yards away show radiation levels 3,355 times the legal limit. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 30, 2011 Egypt to hold presidential elections Egypt has declared that the first elections for a new president since the ousting of President Hosni Mubarak will be held in November. The information came after the military announced a new 62-article interim constitution. Several candidates have emerged including Nobel Peace Prize winner Mohamed ElBaradei. Read more: WTOP.com) March 30, 2011 Cobra missing from Bronx Zoo The Bronx Zoo has been closed after an extremely venomous Egyptian cobra was reported missing Friday from its case in the reptile house. According to the Wildlife Conservation Society, the snake is most likely living in the pipes and mechanical machinery of the reptile house and will be difficult to find. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 29, 2011 Pentagon reports spending $550 million in Libya According to the Pentagon, the U.S. has reportedly spent $550 million on bombs and missiles as part of the country’s military intervention in Libya. After 10 days in war-stricken Libya, the U.S. has shot 192 long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles, each one costing $1-1.5 million, and flown roughly 370 bombing missions. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 29, 2011 Fairfax County elects names for new Metro stations Eight new names were approved Tuesday for the new stations being built along the recently extended Metro line that stretches through Fairfax County to Dulles International Airport. The Fairfax County Board elected eight names from a list of 41 and now the list must go before the Metro Board for approval. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 29, 2011 Beyonce, father part ways Grammy award-winning artist Beyonce and her father, Mathew Knowles have parted ways according to the Associated Press after the singer announced she will no longer be managed by her father. While their daughter-father relationship is still concrete, the artist believed it was time to manager herself. Her father has managed Beyonce since she was a child. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 28, 2011 Air strikes back rebels in Libyan civil war Backed by powerful airstrikes, Libyan rebels have nearly retaken all the territory captured from them in the past weeks by Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi in what has become an on-going civil war. Since the U.N. declared a no-fly zone over Libya, international air forces have shot 199 long-range cruise missiles at Gadhafi military air bases, vehicles and ground forces. Rebel forces are making their way toward Gahafi’s military headquarters nearly 100 miles away. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 28, 2011 Traces of radioactivity discovered in Md., Va. Recent tests have shown small traces of radioactivity in the rainwater and air of Maryland and Virginia. The Virginia Department of Health is advising citizens not to drink from rainwater collected in cisterns but emphasized that the state’s drinking water is safe. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 28, 2011 Mayor Gray will deliver State of the District address D.C. mayor Vincent Gray will deliver his first State of the District address on April 1, discussing the budget and his vision for Washington. Gray has come under fire recently for hiring relatives as his aids, the salaries that he pays his top staff and promising former mayoral candidate Sulaimon Brown a job in return for Brown’s continued attacks on former mayor Adrian Fenty. Currently, Gray has a 31 percent approval rating. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 25, 2011 Breach suspected in stricken nuclear plant Japanese officials suspect that there is a breach in the failed reactor at the Fukushima nuclear plant which could lead to serious radiation contamination. Leading officials believe this after high levels of radiation was found in raw milk and various vegetables. If the situation worsens, officials will not hesitate to order a mandatory evacuation of people in the area. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 25, 2011 Metro to install cameras According to officials, a $2.8 million grant from the Department of Homeland Security will be used by Metro to install 105 color cameras to film the outside of Metro entrances in order to increase safety. The Department of Homeland Security reports that crimes have jumped from 800 to 1000 between 2009 and 2010. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 25, 2011 Black population down to 50 percent in Washington According to the most recent census, only 50 percent of Washington D.C.’s population is black, marking the lowest it’s been in 60 years. The census also predicts that the nation’s capital may soon lose its black majority. As true in most cities across the country, other minorities are signifcantly increasing in number at a fast rate. White population in Washington is 34.8 percent. (Read more: WTOP.com)
March 24, 2011
Anxiety in Japan is growing after radiation was detected in Tokyo’s tap water yesterday. The iodine levels were twice the normal height and well over what is considered safe for small children. Stores across Tokyo are now rationing items such as milk and toilet paper in the wake of a shortage of bottled water. (Read more: WTOP.com)
March 24, 2011
A 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit North East Myanmar Thursday night, shaking building 70 miles away but causing no tsunami. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake was only six miles deep and shook the homes of 600,000 people. Even the city of Bangkok was affected nearly 480 miles south of where the quake occurred. (Read more: WTOP.com)
March 24, 2011
Washington area police are combating a recent phone app that warns drivers of DUI check points. Police reason that the only reason drivers would use this resource is to drive under the influence. Not only that, police reminds drivers that driving while using hand held devices is illegal. (Read more: WTOP.com)
March 23, 2011
Elizabeth Taylor dies at 79
Legendary actress Elizabeth Taylor has died at age 79 in Los Angeles after being hospitalized for about six weeks. According to publicist Sally Morrison, Taylor passed away from congestive heart failure. Taylor is revered for her Oscar performances in “Butterfield 8” and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” (Read more: WTOP.com)
March 23, 2011
Small traces of radiation detected in Western Europe
According to experts, small amounts of radiation from the damaged Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant has reached Iceland and is expected to also appear in France through contaminated air. The experts stress that the traces of fallout are not harmful to health. Radiation was detected after March 11 massive quake and tsunami that hit Japan. (Read more: WTOP.com)
March 23, 2011
Local charter school shutting down
One of Washington’s first charter schools, the Thea Bowman Preparatory School, is shutting down at year’s end due to low enrollment and financial troubles. The D.C. Public Charter School Board officials intend to hold a community forum in the next two weeks to aid in placing the displaced students in other schools. The academy served 130 students grade 5-8 and opened in 2008. (Read more: WTOP.com)
March 22, 2011 U.S. fighter plane crashes in Libya An American fighter jet crashed in Libya Tuesday due to a reported mechanical failure and both pilots sustained only minor injuries after managing to eject before the plane hit the ground. Both pilots have been rescued by U.S. forces, with one having been sheltered by rebel forces in East Libya. The fighter jet, an F-15, was part of a U.S. fleet controlling the skies over war-torn Libya. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 22, 2011 Number of dead continues to rise in Japan According to Tokyo police, approximately 9,100 have been confirmed dead and nearly 13,000 are still missing following the massive earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan. Japan estimates that the final figure will most likely exceed 18,000 dead. The region of Miyagi will exceed 15,000 alone. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 22, 2011 D.C. residents happiest of the nation’s largest 52 cities According to the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, residents of Washington D.C. are the happiest of the nation’s major 52 cities. This report based its findings on life and work evaluations as well as behavior and health. Despite being one of the worst areas for traffic and work hours, the rich culture of Washington coupled with free events, museums, and monuments makes the D.C. area a desirable place to live. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 21, 2011 U.N. airstrikes enforce no-fly zone in Libya A U.N. led coalition neutralized Libyan air defenses by using airstrikes in an effort to protect civilians and enforce a recently imposed no-fly zone. According to U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron, the airstrikes, led by the Britain, France and the United States, were “necessary, legal and right” to help advert a massacre. Read more: WTOP.com) March 21, 2011 Traces of radiation found in produce near Japan The sale of produce from regions close to Japan has been banned after traces of radiation were discovered. The government warns people living within 20 miles of the plant to not drink tap water for iodine risk but announced that radiation levels were too small to be a major health problem. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 21, 2011 Co-worker charged in yoga shop murder According to court documents, the suspect in the recent homicide at a popular Bethesda yoga shop was not two masked men as previously thought but a co-worker who hurt herself and posed with her hands tied when police arrived. 20-year-old Brittany Norwood was arrested and charged with first-degree murder in the death of 30-year-old Jayna Murray: WTOP.com) March 18, 2011 U.N. declares n0-fly zone over Libya Libya has declared a cease fire following U.N. authorization of a no-fly zone over the war-torn country. In an effort to prevent Libyan government forces from attacking its own citizens, countries such as France, Britain and Italy are prepared to stage airstrikes and use fighter jets to restrain Libya’s military. The US is yet to get involved. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 18, 2011 Missing New York Times journalists in Libya found The four New York Times journalists that went missing early last week while covering the unrest in Libya have been found. According to the Times, journalists Anthony Shadid, Tyler Hicks, Lynsey Addario and Stephen Farrell were captured by forces loyal to Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi. Libya promised to release the journalist following a conversation with the U.S. State Department. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 18, 2011 Support Japan at early cherry tree event Two nights before the National Cherry Blossom Festival, organizers are inviting people to attend Stand with Japan. The event was created for people to reflect upon the recent disaster in Japan while walking around the tidal basin. The cherry blossoms were a gift from Tokyo in 1912. Donations raised will go to the Red Cross to fund aid for Japan. Read more: WTOP.com) March 17, 2011 Helicopters dump water on Fukushima power plant Military helicopters have reportedly dumped gallons upon gallons of water on the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant in Japan in an effort to cool nuclear fuel rods that are at risk of projecting dangerous levels of radiation. So far, emergency workers are unsure of the effectiveness of the water bombs and have also tried shooting water cannons, from fire trucks and military vehicles to cool down the rods. Chances of a total meltdown are still extremely realistic. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 17, 2011 D.C. nuclear site voted to most earthquake-prone list The North Anna Nuclear Generation Station in the D.C. area is No. 7 on the United States’ most earthquake –prone nuclear sites. In light of recent nuclear plant concerns in Japan, the North Anna site remains unfazed and will continue to push for a third reactor along Lake Anna, Va. The Nuclear Regularity Commission, which compiled the list, is expected to reach a decision regarding the site’s expansion in the next two years. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 17, 2011 Road signs changed just in time At least two signs in D.C. were updated by the D.C. Department of Transportation this week after several reports stated that the signs still pointed to the MCI center, the former home of the Capitals, Wizards and Mystics before it was renamed Verizon Center back in 2006. The change comes just in time as the Verizon Center plays host to the first round of the NCAA Tournament, starting today and is expecting sell-out crowds. Read more: WTOP.com) March 16, 2011 New York Times reporters missing in Libya Four journalists from the New York Times that were covering the conflict in Libya have been reported missing. The New York Times hopes that the four are alive and in custody of the Libyan government. Among the missing is Pulitzer-Prize winning reporter Anthony Shadid. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 16, 2011 180 Japan nuclear workers risk lives to prevent meltdown Dubbed by some as modern-day Samurai and by others, suicide fighters, 180 elite Japan nuclear workers have been entering the failed Fukushima power plant and risking explosions, fire and extreme exposure to radioactivity in order to stop a potential meltdown. The plant became crippled after last Friday’s 8.9 magnitude earthquake and tsunami. Currently, residents within 50 miles of the plant have been ordered by Japanese officials to evacuate the area or stay indoors. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 16, 2011 Clinton not keeping job if available in 2012 Secretary of State Hillary Clinton reported that she is not interested in keeping her job if President Obama is reelected in 2012. According to Clinton, she is also not considering the presidency, vice presidency or the job as defense secretary. “There isn’t anything that I can imagine doing after this that would be as demanding, as challenging or rewarding,” Clinton said. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 15, 2011 Japan orders 140,000 indoors to avoid radiation Japan has ordered 140,000 people to seal themselves indoors after an explosion and a fire leaked dangerous levels of radiation from a crippled nuclear power plant. The Fukushima Dai-ichi has been in distress since an 8.9 magnitude earthquake and ensuing tsunami devastated the facility. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 15, 2011 DHS is releasing thousands of dangerous criminals According to Prince William County Board of Supervisors Chairman Corey Stewart, the Department of Homeland Security is knowingly releasing dangerous illegal immigrants rather than deporting them. Stewart stated that Prince William authorities have captured and released over 3000 immigrant criminals including those awaiting trial involving vehicular man slaughter. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 15, 2011 Obama to give commencement speech in Miami President Obama will deliver the commencement speech at a college in Miami next month as part of his agenda to promote education. Obama’s appearance at the Miami Dade College’s North Campus will also allow the president to campaign in politically-important Florida. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 14, 2011 Japan prepares for possible meltdown Sudden drops in water levels at the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear plant in Japan are leaving uranium fuel rods completely exposed and raising the threat of a possible meltdown. The complex is the focus of authorities after an 8.9 magnitude earthquake and tsunami hit the facility located on the Pacific Ocean. Nearly 180,000 people have been evacuated from the area due to radiation exposure. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 14, 2011 Thousands of bodies washed up along Japanese shore Thousands of bodies washed ashore Monday in Japan, three days after a record 8.9 magnitude earthquake and tsunami ravaged the nation. Meanwhile, millions of people are still without food, water and heat as rescue crews work around the clock to aid survivors and search for the missing. Japan continues to be hit by aftershocks which still measure at a magnitude of 6.0 (Read more: WTOP.com) March 14, 2011 15 dead after deadly New York bus accident 15 people are confirmed dead after a New York City tour bus was involved in a gruesome crash Saturday in the Bronx. The bus reportedly was clipped by a tractor trailer before sliding along a guard rail and sliding into a sign pole whereupon, the bus was sheared completely in half. Officials report that most of the victims were of Chinese descent and the bus was returning from a Casino trip to Connecticut. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 11, 2011 Hundreds dead after earthquake-triggered tsunami slams Japan A record-breaking earthquake off the coast of Japan triggered a massive tsunami Friday that killed hundreds after it slammed into Japan’s eastern coast. The magnitude 8.9 quake unleashed a 23 foot wave which was followed by more than 50 aftershocks, most of them higher than a magnitude of 6.0. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 11, 2011 Obama calls disaster in Japan “catastrophic” In a press conference Friday, President Obama called the tsunami that killed hundreds in Japan “catastrophic” and pledged U.S. assistance. The Tsunami, triggered by the largest earthquake in Japanese history, also hit the islands of Hawaii and the western coast of the United States. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 11, 2011 Japan evacuates thousands living near nuclear plant Pressure inside a Japanese nuclear power plant rose 1.5 times the normal level prompting Japan to evacuate three thousand people living near the plant. The plant is under distress following a magnitude 8.9 earthquake and ensuing tsunami. To fix the problem, Japan plans to release slightly radioactive vapor which will do no damage to the environment or people. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 10, 2011 Afghan soldiers prepare to take over According to the Associated Press, NATO-led troops in charge of security at six sites across Afghanistan will soon be replaced by Afhgan soldiers in an effort by Afghan President Hamid Karzai to have his troops in power across the country by 2014. Currently there are about 145,000 US and Nato-led troops in the country. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 10, 2011 Rally at Ind. Statehouse draws thousands More than 8,000 people gathered outside the Indiana Statehouse today in protest of Indiana Republicans and GOP leaders across the nation attack on public education and labor unions. According to state police, many of the 8,000 workers was made up of teachers, lawmakers and union workers fighting for collective bargaining rights. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 10, 2011 Actress of “The Wire” busted in massive Md. drug raid Felicia “Snoop” Pearson (30) who played a character of the same name in the HBO drama, “The Wire,” was among the 60 people arrested in a Baltimore area drug raid early Thursday morning. Drug Enforcement Administrators carried out the raid after a seven months investigation. It is unsure what Pearson is being charged with. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 9, 2011 Washington Post columnist dies at 81 David Broder, a Pulitzer Prize winning columnist for the Washington Post has died at age 81 of complications from diabetes. Broder was recognized as writer who treated Democrats and Republicans equally. He was also the most frequent panelist on NBC’s “Meet the Press.” (Read more: WTOP.com) March 9, 2011 Gadhafi targeting oil facilities Giant yellow fire balls could be seen exploding into the air after forces loyal to Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi struck oil pipelines and oil storage facilities in central Libya. The attacks are part of Gadhafi’s assault on rebels trying to move into the capital. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 9, 2011 82 percent of the nation’s schools are “failing” According to Education Secretary Arne Duncan, 82 percent of US schools could be labeled as “failing” under the country’s No Child Left Behind Act this year. States are toughening their standards to meet law requirements which are expected to make the number of school unable to meet standards shoot from 37 percent in 2010 to 82 percent in 2011. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 8, 2011 Metro could feel impact of federal budget cuts Federal budget cuts could jeopardize Metro which could have a big impact on many people’s commute. The D.C. mayor, both Virginia and Maryland governors and many members of the region’s congressional delegation are all calling for Congress to give $150 million in matching funds for Metro. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 8, 2011 Discovery returns to Earth one last time Astronauts of the Space Shuttle Disovery awoke today to the first-ever live wake-up music concert being broadcasted from Misson Control. Discovery is scheduled to return to Earth tomorrow for the last time, where NASA plans to decommission the 27-year-old shuttle and have it sent to the National Air and Space Museum. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 8, 2011 “Old Sparky” to be on display in Ohio museum A museum in Ohio will feature an exhibit portraying artifacts from Ohio’s darker past that will require guests to be over the age of 17 unless accompanied by an adult. The exhibit will include a 19th century cage used for imprisoning mental patients, hoods and clokes worn by the Klu Klux Klan in 1920 and “Old Sparky,” the infamous electric chair last used for an execution in 1963. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 7, 2011 East Coast Rapist suspect held on $1.5 million bail DNA results confirm recently captured suspect Aaron Thomas, 39, as the so-called East Coast Rapist. DNA links Thomas to 12 attacks with 17 victims in Virginia, Maryland, Connecticut and Rhode Island. He is currently being held on $1.5 million bail and could face 5 life sentences in Virginia alone. Connecticut is scheduled to try Thomas first. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 7, 2011 Britain and France wish to impose no-fly zone Pressure for a no-fly zone over Libya is being stressed by the UN after Libyan leader Moammar Gadfahi began implementing his air force to counter rebel forces attempting to oust the ruler of 41 years. Britain and France are currently a drafting a resolution that will institute a no-fly zone and protect innocent civilians being hurt in the Gadhafi air raids. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 7, 2011 Salmonella scare forces Skippy to recall peanut butter Two spreads by the company that produces Skippy peanut butter are being recalled after testing resulted in salmonella being found in both reduced fat and reduced chunky Skippy peanut butter. According to the company, states affected by the recall include: Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Wisconsin. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 4, 2011 Aid effort picks up for thousands of fleeing Libyans According to UN officials, an international effort to aid thousands of fleeing Libyans still stuck on the Tunisia side of border has picked up speed. The U.N. aims to shelter and repatriate the refugees even as the torrent of Libyans leaving Tunisia slows due to stepped up threats and intimidation by Gadhafi security forces. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 4, 2011 Unemployment rate lowest it’s been in two years The American unemployment rate was the lowest it’s been in two years as it fell to 8.9 percent in February. 192,000 jobs were added to the economy last month with many of the jobs coming from factories, professional and business services and education. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 4, 2011 4 former presidents to join forces on NBC Four former presidents will unite on NBC for a TV special saluting public service and volunteerism. The event, which will air March 28, will feature former presidents, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter and George H. W. Bush. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 3, 2011 Obama declares Gadhafi must go President Barack Obama demanded today that Libyan leader Moammer Gadhafi leave his office declaringthat Gadhafi had lost the ability to lead. Obama’s outburst is the hardest stance he’s taken against Gadhafi to date and stems from violence against rebels by Gadhafi loyalists. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 3, 2011 Virginia prison inmates punished for not cutting hair Inmates of Virginian prisons are being moved to higher security detention centers because they refuse to cut their hair. Most of these inmates are Rastafarians, people that belive it is against the will of God to cut their hair, and are being moved because it violates theVirginia state grooming policy. The hope is that by placing inmates in higher security, they can be persuaded to cut their hair. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 3, 2011 Charlie Sheen to give commencement speech at George Washington University? A group of students from George Washington Univeristy are campaigning to have actor Charlie Sheen give the commencement speech at this year’s graduation. Nearly 1000 Facebook users have reportedly “liked” the idea of having Sheen as a speaker and the proposal has also spread to the network site Twitter, where Sheen has become an over-night sensation, garnering over 1 million fans. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 2, 2011 Ohio passes bill to ban public striking A bill was passed in Ohio Wednesday afternoon that will ban public workers from striking and institute jail time and fines for those that do. The bill also restricted collective bargaining rights for the nearly 400,000 public workers in Ohio. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 2, 2011 Maryland House has enough votes to secure advancement of gay marriage bill According to delegate Heather Mizeur, D-Montgomery, the Maryland House Judiciary Committee has the 12 votes needed to advance a bill that will legalize gay marriage in Maryland. Last week, the Maryland Senate passed the bill and Gov. Martin O’Malley has agreed to also sign the bill into law. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 2, 2011 Restraining order placed against Charlie Sheen Brooke Mueller, the estranged wife of actor Charlie Sheen had a restraining order placed against him to keep him away from her and their two young sons. According to Mueller, she was concerned for her family’s safety following violent remarks made by Sheen in recent days. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 1, 2011 Libyan anti-government forces resist Gadhafi’s rule Several cities, including the city of Nalut, in Libya are currently under Libyan anti-government control, as the protesters continue to rebel against Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi’s regime. Thousands lie in wait, armed with crude weapons and machine guns, awaiting attacks by the Libyan military. (Read more: WTOP.com) March 1, 2011 Thousands of jobs will be created with Virginia transportation package Thousands of jobs could potentially be created as a result of Virginia’s decision to pump $4 billion into the state to improve transportation. The infusion of money is expected to have a positive impact on the state’s economy (Read more: WTOP.com) March 1, 2011 Charlie Sheen demands pay for crew Charlie Sheen, the star of CBS’ “Two and a Half Men,” is at the center of a wave of high-profile interviews as the controversial actor continues to attack Chuck Lorre, the producer of the television show. Sheen is on the offensive in order to get pay for the show’s crew that is only getting paid for half of the show’s final eight episodes that were canceled. (Read more: WTOP.com) February 28, 2011 Egypt seizes all funds of former President Mubarak Following an 18-day pro-democracy riot that led to the ousting of President Hosni Mubarak, the Egyptian government has seized all of Mubarak’s funds. The powerful leader, reportedly, took in a profit that was in the tens of billions of dollars while much of the country lived under or near the poverty line. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 28, 2011 Last living WWI veteran dies at age 110 Frank Buckles, who joined the United States army at the age of 16 to fight in the “war to end all wars,” died at age 110, the last living veteran of WWI. Buckles, born in 1901, devoted much of his life advocating for a memorial in D.C. commemorating the Great War. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 28, 2011 “The King’s Speech” sweeps Oscars Winning the Oscar for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor and Original Screenplay, “The King’s Speech,” completed the movie business’ version of the Triple Crown while beating out other highly touted films such as “The Social Network,” “Black Swan” and “The Fighter.” Natalie Portman received an Oscar for Best Actress for her performance in “Black Swan” and Christian Bale took home Best Supporting Actor for his role in “The Fighter.” (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 25, 2011 US closes embassy in Libya amidst sweeping new sanctions President Barack Obama has abandoned its embassy in Libya and ordered sanctions against its government in response to violence and corruption that has erupted there in recent weeks. Obama is said to be meeting with the United Nations Monday to discuss the situation in Libya. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 25, 2011 New web site launched to help catch East Coast Rapist Investigators have stepped up their search for a serial rapist responsible for at least 17 attacks by unveiling a web site that will help notify the public. The man, dubbed the East Coast Rapist, is wanted in four states, included Maryland and Virginia. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 25, 2011 ‘Hangover Part II’ sneak trailer released The sneak trailer to the upcoming film “Hangover Part II”, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2009 summer blockbuster comedy, hit the internet yesterday but revealed very little. The preview showed that the returning characters, called the wolf pack, are in South East Asia and managed to secure a primate for a tag-along friend. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 24, 2011 College student charged with plotting terrorism attack A Texas Tech college student from Saudi Arabia has been charged with plotting a terrorist attack after the F.B.I. discovered he bought chemicals online and other evidence to make bombs. According to the Justice Department, Khalid Ali-M Aldawsari, 20, of Lubbock, Texas, planned to hide bomb material in dolls and strollers in order to blow up American dams, nuclear plants and even the Dallas home of former President George W. Bush. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 24, 2011 Gov. Martin O’Malley to meet with President Obama President Barack Obama is expected to meet with Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley and 11 other democratic governors to discuss job creation. The meeting, which will be held at the White House, will approach topics such as federal and state plans to increase job growth. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 24, 2011 Nationals’ Harper to make spring debut Bryce Harper, Major League Baseball’s top draft pick from last year, is expected to make his spring debut Monday for the Washington Nationals against the New York Mets. Harper, 18, who signed a contract for $9.9 million, will get at least one at-bat in the game. Along with pitcher Stephen Strasburg, Harper is expected to be the future cornerstone for the Nationals. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 23, 2011 Armed man from Woodbridge still at large A man who held his wife at gunpoint before fleeing is still at large according to police. Stuart Michael Shaprio, 35, of Woodbridge reportedly left his residence at Cavallo Way at roughly 6:00 a.m. and is considered armed and dangerous. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 23, 2011 Ex-minister accuses Gadhafi of 1988 bombing According to Libya’s ex-justice minister, Mustafa Abdel-Jalil, Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi ordered the bombing in Lockerbie, Scotland that killed 270 people in 1988, many of which were American. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 23, 2011 Pennsylvania Avenue to be renamed? DC Council member Michael Brown is asking residents to pick a new name for one of the most famous streets in the world as a way to highlight the city’s lack of statehood. Brown wants to change Pennsylvania Avenue to such names as “Let DC Vote Way,” and “Free DC Avenue.” Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 22, 2011 Death toll rising after 6.3 magnitude earthquake hits New Zealand At least 65 people are dead after an earthquake struck one of New Zealand’s largest cities early Tuesday morning. Already ranking as one of the worst earthquakes for the country in the last 80 years, hundreds of people are still trapped under rubble as rescue crews work around the clock to bring them to safety. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 22, 2011 Libyan leader calls for more bloodshed to quell uprising Ranting from a podium at the entrance to his bombed-out home, Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi spoke to his supporters and called for a greater attack against the protesters attempting to dislodge his grip on the nation. According to a New York-based human rights group, at least 233 people have been killed in the uprising thus far, making the unrest the bloodiest of any of the protests sweeping across much of the Middle East. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 22, 2011 Maryland native Carmelo Anthony traded to Knicks in mega-deal NBA All-Star and Maryland native Carmelo Anthony was traded Monday to the New York Knicks in a mega-deal that sent four young players, draft picks and cash in return to the Denver Nuggets. Trade rumors had surrounded Anthony for much of the season and following the deal yesterday, the Knicks are now expected to compete in a talented Eastern Conference. Forward Chauncey Billups was also sent to New York in the deal. Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 21, 2011 Wind causes fire and blackouts throughout D.C. area Saturday marked the biggest fire and rescue response in thirty years by local fire fighters after heavy winds on Saturday caused brush fires and knocked out power to thousands. Prince George’s County fire departments were fighting six large blazes at the same time while a blaze in Laurel caused stoppage along parts of I-95 as plumes of thick smoke aided by the wind caused visibility problems for motorists. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 21, 2011 Protesters continue to march on Wisconsin’s capital For the sixth straight day, protesters gathered at Wisconsin’s capital to show their displeasure with a proposal by Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker that would eliminate collective bargaining rights for the majority of the state’s public employees. In response, a large group of protesters, many of them teachers, are arguing for union rights and hoping that enough Republican senators join the attack to help block the bill. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 21, 2011 Bayne youngest driver to ever win Daytona 500 Trevor Bayne, a relative no-name in NASCAR, became the youngest driver in history to win the Daytona 500 at age 20 after blocking out a drove of veteran drivers in his final lap to seize victory. Bayne’s victory, the first of his career, could not have come in a bigger race, as the young driver won on the 10th anniversary of Dale Earnhardt’s death in what most consider the Super Bowl of racing. Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 18, 2011 Obama criticizes Middle East violence In response to violence in Bahrain, Libya and Yemen, President Barack Obama is appealing to those countries’ governments to show restraint. Obama is condemning the violence that those governments are showing toward protesters, arguing that they have the right to peaceful demonstration. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 18, 2011 Egypt to allow Iranian war ships to pass Suez Canal Despite concerns by Israeli officials, the Egyptian government is allowing two naval warships from Iran to traverse the Suez Canal. Iranian officials, who state the vessels are headed to Syria for training, assured Egyptian officials that the boats will not carry weapons or nuclear material. Israel’s foreign minister stated that the move by Iran is “provocation.” (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 18, 2011 Bill Cosby earns Navy rank in D.C. Comedian Bill Cosby was honored Thursday in Washington D.C. by the Navy, who rewarded Cosby with the rank of Honorary Chief Petty Officer. Cosby, who served in the Navy from 1956 to 1960, said he really enjoyed his time in the service and called it “wonderful.” Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 17, 2011 Va. House rejects bill that banned texting, calling while driving For at least another year, Virginia motorists are free to talk on the phone and text while driving. A Virginia House subcommittee rejected a bill from Sen. Thomas Norment that would have made calling and texting while driving a primary offense for which police could pull drivers over for. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 17, 2011 Barnes nominated to Metro Board Former Maryland Rep. Michael Barnes was nominated to the Metro board of directors by Gov. Martin O’ Malley. Barnes previously served in Maryland’s 8th Congressional district from 1978 to 1987. He is expected to eventually fill the seat currently occupied by Peter Benjamin who will leave when his term is up. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 17, 2011 Obama calls reporter after attack President Barack Obama spoke privately to CBS reporter Lara Logan following her attack in Egypt. Logan was brutally attacked and sexually assaulted while covering President Mubarak’s resignation last Friday. She is currently recovering in a United States hospital. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 16, 2011 Bin Laden to be sent to Guantanamo Bay if caught Osama bin Laden, the mastermind behind the 9/11 terrorist attacks has been on the F.B.I’s Most Wanted list for over a decade but according to the C.I.A, if caught, he would be placed in a prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and not placed in a United States prison. President Obama has been extremely critical of the prison facility in Cuba and believes that American prisons are more than capable of holding such a high-alert prisoner. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 16 2011 Egyptian parliament dissolved by military leaders Egyptians continue to protest five days after the ousting of President Mubarak, stating that a failure by the new military rulers to make decisions openly as the reason why. Despite warnings to halt labor unrest during an economic repression, the public is still fighting for an assortment of grievances. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 16, 2011 2 TSA agents arrested for stealing $40,000 in NYC airport Two Transportation Security Administration agents at John F. Kennedy Airport have been arrested on charges of stealing $40,000 from a passenger’s luggage. The two stole it from the suitcase after seeing a large wad of cash appear in the x-ray machine. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 15, 2011 Berlusconi to stand trial following sex scandal Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi will stand trial April 6 on charges of prostitution and abuse of power following accusations that he paid to have sex with a 17-year-old girl and then attempted to cover it up. The trial will be heard by a panel of three randomly selected women judges. If guilty on all charges, Berlusconi may face close to a decade in jail. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 15, 2011 Former Prince George’s County Executive Jack Johnson Indicted Former Prince George’s County Executive Jack Johnson has been indicted on corruption charges by a grand jury and charged with accepting money and campaign contributions. Among other unlawful gifts, Johnson is also being charged with bribery, witness and evidence tampering, extortion and conspiracy. If guilty, the 61-year-old could face decades of jail time. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 15, 2011 President calls for bi-partisanship to tackle nation’s biggest problems Even as President Barak Obama defended his new budget plan as one of “tough choices” at a news conference today, he also asked Democrats and Republicans to work together to handle the nation’s largest expenses made up of Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Said Obama, “It’s a matter of everybody having a serious conversation about where we want to go and then ultimately getting in that boat at the same time so it doesn’t tip over.” (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 14, 2011 Tough times ahead President Barak Obama is presenting congress with a $3.73 trillion spending outline that will include $1.1 trillion in deficit savings that will be in effect for the next decade because of tax increases and spending cuts. The new budget projects that the deficit for 2011 will rise to an all-time high $1.65 trillion and ensuring the country’s fourth straight year of $1 trillion-plus deficits. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 14, 2011 Rep. Giffords finally able to speak For the first time since she was severely injured at a political rally in, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords has spoken, able to hold simple conversations with her husband. Where at first her speech was slow and difficult, according to her speech therapist, she is now being told to slow down. “The communication is coming back,” Gifford’s husband said. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 14, 2011 Eminem unable to win elusive album of the year Grammy Eminem entered the Grammys last night the leading nominee with ten, including album of the year, an award he had yet to win. His streak continued after “The Suburbs” by Arcade Fire won for best album. The event marked the third time in Eminem’s career that the rapper lost out for best album of the year. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 11, 2011 Egypt’s President Mubarak steps down Egypt’s President Hosni Mubarak has resigned following 18 days of pro-democracy protests and demonstrations. Originally vowing to keep his power until his term ended in September, Mubarak has instead handed over his power to the military to the delight of the several hundred thousand protestors in the street. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 11, 2011 Redskins may move training camp According to the Washington Post, the Redskins are considering moving their training camp to Georgetown University. Since 2003, the ‘Skins hold training camp at their headquarters in Ashburn, Va. but recent preliminary talks between the team and the University of Georgetown suggest that Washington’s football team could be a part of “Mason Nation.” It would not be the first time the Redskins have held training camp at a college. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 11, 2011 “The Hobbit” close to filming “The Hobbit,” the much anticipated sequel to Peter Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings,” is finally close to filming after months of delays fueled by pre-production problems and actor boycotts. Expected to be released as a two-part movie, “The Hobbit” will open in theaters in late 2012. Many of the same actors from “The Lord of the Rings” are returning to make a film that is expected to take roughly two years to film. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 10, 2011 Md. census shows growth in D.C. Hispanic population The U.S. Census Bureau reported that D.C. suburbs had the biggest population growth in the state over the past decade and Hispanics represent the greatest increase over that time. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Maryland’s population grew from roughly 477,000 between 2000 and 2010 with more than half of the state’s growth a result from an increase in Hispanic population. Moreover, Montgomery County has become a majority-minority county for the first time ever, as 50.7 of the county’s residents report they are of an ethnicity other than non-Hispanic White. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 10, 2011 NY congressman resigns following shirtless photo story Rep. Christopher Lee, a married Republican congressman from New York, abruptly resigned yesterday amidst accusations that the two-time congressman e-mailed a shirtless photo of himself to a woman on Craigslist. In a statement following his actions, Lee stated, “I regret the harm that my actions have caused my family, my staff and my constituents.” (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 10, 2011 Egypt blames Al-Jazeera for stoking protests The Egyptian government had made it clear they blame the broadcast network Al-Jazeera for fueling the anti-government protests after the country detained and released at least nine of the network’s correspondents. Blaming Al-Jazeera for its protest coverage, the Egyptian government has banded both its Arabic and English language channels and stated that several satellite channels are “provoking” the unrest. Egypt has currently removed press credentials of all Al-Jazeera’s journalists. (Read more: WTOP.com) 9, 2011 First black chief justice of the Virginia Supreme Court dies Justice Leroy Rountree Hassell Sr., the first black chief justice of the Virginia Supreme Court, had died at age 55. Hassell served as a member of the Supreme Court since 1989. In 2003 Hassell became chief justice until he was succeeded by Justice Cynthia Kinser last winter. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 9, 2011 Woman waits on fate of fetus after mistakenly receiving abortion drug A Colorado woman awaits the fate of her unborn child after a pharmacist mistakenly gave her an abortion drug. Mareena Silva, who is six-weeks pregnant, took methotrexate, which could result in a miscarriage or a baby with birth defects. The drug was intended for another woman, (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 9, 2011 “Redwall” author dies at age 71 Brian Jacques, the revered author of the best-selling “Redwall” children books has died at age 71. Jacques began writing the books after telling the stories to children at the Royal Wavertree School for the Blind as a milk delivery man in Liverpool. The “Redwall” series depicted animals of Redwall Abbey, a make-believe world inspired by European folk tales and medieval history. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 8, 2011 Goal for Giffords is to see husband’s launch The doctor of wounded Rep. Gabrielle Giffords expresses hope that the congresswoman will be well enough to watch the space launch of her husband in two months. Giffords, who was shot in the head at a political event a month ago, is making “lightening” recovery according to her doctor who expressed optimism that Giffords will reach her goal. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 8, 2011 Silver Spring teacher accused of choking students Susan Lee Burke, a first grade teacher at Greencastle Elementary School in Silver Spring, was arrested on charges that she physically attacked nine of her students. The investigation had been ongoing since January when police responded to a male student who accused his teacher of assaulting him on several occasions. All of the attacks took place on school campus, in which Burke allegedly choked, punched, kicked and scratched her 6 to7 year old students. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 8, 2011 Grandson of J. Paul Getty dead at 54 J. Paul Getty III, the grandson of the elder billionaire died at age 54 after leading a rather troubled life. In 1973, at the age of 16, Getty III was kidnapped and mutilated for ransom money and was never the same upon his release, spiraling into a life of drugs and alcohol. At age 20 he suffered a stroke that left him handicapped for the rest of his life. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 7, 2011 Green Bay Packers win Super Bowl 31-25 The Green Bay Packers defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25 to win their first Super Bowl title in 14 years. Packers’ quarterback Aaron Rodgers was named the game’s MVP after tossing three touchdowns, two to wide receiver Greg Jennings. The victory should enshrine Rodgers in Packer history and finally make fans forget Green Bay quarterback legend Brett Favre who was divorced from the Packers unceremoniously. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 7, 2011 AOL buys Huffington Post for $315 million In what is a colossal move for the future of online news, Internet Company AOL bought news site Huffington Post Monday morning for $315 million. By purchasing the Huffington Post, AOL CEO Tim Armstrong is delivering an extremely aggressive move, one he hopes helps restructures AOL and puts a bold stamp on the future of online news. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 7, 2011 Md. Man charged with peeping Tom, burglary 35-year-old Charles Novak of Anne Arundel County is being charged with 21 counts of peeping Tom and burglary after police discovered videos of women changing and a pair of little girl’s underwear in the home of Novak. According to police, Novak was previously under house arrest and is now being help without bail. Novak was arrested after police responded to a burglary call and discovered Novak with a camera and videos depicting nude people. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 4, 2011 Maryland toll fees expected to rise Tolls for many of Maryland’s major transportation facilities are expected to increase this summer including tolls for the Bay Bridge and the Fort McHenry Tunnel. According to the Daily Record, tolls are expected to jump an average of 75 cents. The Maryland Transportation Authority stated that the increases are needed to help fund maintenance costs and new projects. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 4, 2011 Hundreds of protesters take to the streets in Jordan Though not as large as the current rebellion in Egypt, hundreds of Jordanian citizens marched in protest today against Jordan’s prime minister. According to Jordan’s Muslim opposition group, it intends to give the prime minister time to carry out promised political reform. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 4, 2011 “Sesame Street” coming to Washington DC “Sesame Street” is teaming up with the National Children’s Museum t0 create exhibits incorporating many of the characters seen every morning on “Sesame Street” by children everywhere. The future museum, which costs $182.6 million, will give characters such as Elmo and Big Bird their first permanent home in the history of the show. Under construction along the Potomac River at the National Harbor, the museum is slated to open in 2013. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 2, 2011 DC area universities heavily invested in Peace Corps According to the Peace Corps, the University of Mary Washington has more alumni serving the Peace Corps (32 undergraduates) than any other school in the nation. Mary Washington is one of three medium-sized schools in DC and Virginia that are in the top 5 for volunteers in the Peace Corps. The other two are University of Virginia and American University. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 2, 2011 US criticizes Egyptian government, condemns violence White House spokesman Robert Gibbs announced today that the US “deplores and condemns the violence that is taking place in Egypt.” In the wake of clashes between demonstrators and pro-government supporters, President Obama called for Egyptian President Mubarak to give up his power. Egypt is currently one of America’s closest allies in the Middle East. (Read more: WTOP.com) FEBRUARY 2, 2011 Farrah Fawcett’s red swimsuit headed to Smithsonian The red swimsuit famously worn by actress Farrah Fawcett in the 1970’s hit show “Charlie’s Angels” is headed for the Smithsonian in Washington. The iconic swimsuit will be part of the museum’s popular culture history collection. A 1976 poster of Fawcett wearing the swimsuit has sold millions of copies. (Read more: WTOP.com) Gas prices may rise as Middle East conflict escalates As protesters continue to demonstrate in the Mideast, oil analysts fear that gas prices in the area may rise as a result. Despite the fact that both Egypt and Tunisia are not oil-producing countries, the uncertainty about the oil supply could potentially have a negative impact on prices at the pump. Currently, the average price of unleaded gas in the DC-Metro area is $3.10 per gallon. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 31, 2011 Chaos in Cairo airport as foreigners flee Egypt Thousands of foreigner have crowded Cairo’s international airport in an attempt to escape a country currently in a state of unrest. Countries around the world rushed to send planes to Egypt to fly their citizens home after protests and political conflict forced many to seek passage out of the country. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 31, 2011 5-Time Oscar winning composer, John Barry, dies at 77 Composer John Barry, who is most recognized for writing the theme music for a dozen James Bond films, died in New York at the age of 77. Barry won Oscars for movies such as “Born Free,” “Gone with the Wind” and “Dances with Wolves.” He is survived by his wife, Laurie, his four children and his five grandchildren. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 28, 2011 Hostage escapes Takoma Park bank robber The condition of a Takoma Park Capital One bank robber is unknown after police shot the man as he exited the bank with a woman hostage early this morning. The hostage managed to escape when the robber slipped on ice. Prince Georges County police spokeswoman Lt. Tammy Sparkman believes a police officer may have also been shot. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 28, 2011 Egypt responds to riots with night curfews, military Following a day of unrest in which tens of thousands of protesters rioted in the streets of Cairo, Egypt President Hosni Mubarak enforced a night curfew and threatened the use of military might to suppress the uprising and recent challenge to his presidency. The curfew is expected to take effect between the hours of 6p.m and 7p.m. and be enforced by police coupled with military personnel. So far, the riots have claimed the life of eight people and led to the house arrest of Nobel Peace Laureate Mohamed ElBaradei. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 28, 2011 Mystery of piano on Miami sandbar solved The grand piano that appeared on a sandbar in Miami and left many to wonder how it got there has been claimed by teenager Nicholas Harrington who hoped the endeavor would help get him into Manhattan Cooper Union College, a prestigious art school in New York. With the help of his brother and neighbors, Harrington secretly took the piano to Biscayne Bay where they placed it on the highest point of the sandbar. The act, Harrington hopes, will be perceived as “a movement” and not a prank. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 27, 2011 Thousands still without power after Wednesday’s storm Thousands are still left in the dark after the winter storm that swept through the region Wednesday night tore down trees, limbs and power lines. Nearly 650,000 homes and businesses were without power at the height of the storm and many are warned that it could be days before power is restored. Crews are working around the clock to re-establish power to those affected. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 27, 2011 President Obama chooses former Time journalist as Press Secretary Former Time Magazine journalist Jay Carney is President Barack Obama’s next choice for press secretary. Carney will replace current Press Secretary Robert Gibbs who will leave his post in a few weeks after a year of serving the president. As a writer for Time, Carney covered presidents and politics. The re-shaping of Obama’s administration for the rest of his term is falling into place as he prepares to enter the third year of his presidency. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 27, 2011 Jimmy Buffett released from hospital after nasty fall at Australian concert A day after falling off the stage at a concert in Sydney, Australia and being knocked unconscious, rock legend Jimmy Buffett left the hospital today. Buffett escaped out a backdoor at St. Vincent’s Hospital in downtown Sydney to avoid press after getting the all-clear from doctors. According to witnesses attending the concert, they heard a “crack” when Buffett hit his head on the floor. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 25, 2011 Oprah Winfrey discovers sister she never knew she had On an emotional Oprah Winfrey Show Monday, January 24, Oprah introduced her viewers to Patricia, the half-sister she didn’t know she had. Patricia is a Milwaukee woman who was given up for adoption 48 years ago by Winfrey’s mother and has spent much of her life in pursuit of her birth mother. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 25, 2011 Prime Minister Putin vows “retribution” following suicide bombing Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin promised “retribution is inevitable” for a terrorist attack that killed 35 people and left 180 injured in a Russian airport Monday January 24. No responsibility has been claimed for the attack which occurred at Domodedovo Airport in Moscow, one of Russia’s busiest. Putin also guaranteed to punish government security officials responsible for mistakes. (Read more: WTOP.com ) JANUARY 25, 2011 Boil water advisory to remain in effect for several more days Roughly 400,000 Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission customers continue to endure a boil water advisory following a burst water main on the Capital Beltway that tossed cars and closed stores and roads early Monday morning. WSSC customers under advisory include those that live south of Central Avenue and Route 202/Landover Rd in Prince Georges County. The incident, which occurred only two years after a water main burst on River Road, illustrates the need for thousands of miles of water main repairs. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 22, 2011 Sargent Shriver remembered for idealism, charity Sargent Shriver, the idealist and politician who spent his life dedicated to public service, was remembered by family and friends today at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Potomac, Maryland. The eulogy was given by former President Bill Clinton and Vice President Joe Biden. Shriver died Tuesday after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 22, 2011 Olbermann, NBC relationship was “failing” Keith Olbermann, host of MSNBC’s “Countdown”, abruptly ended his show last Friday without explanations or indications as to what he will do next in his broadcasting career. Today, MSNBC broke their silence, remarking that Olbermann’s relationship with the network had been “failing” for a long time. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 22, 2011 Zsa Zsa Gabor recups after leg amputation The doctors of Zsa Zsa Gabor reported today that the 93-year-old actress is recuperating after undergoing a procedure to amputate her right leg. Gabor’s doctors decided to amputate when an infection in the leg persisted. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 18, 2011 Sargent Shriver of Peace Corps, Head Start dies at age 95 Sargent Shriver, a statesman and a former presidential candidate and U.S. Ambassador to France has died. Shriver played a pivotal role in the formation of the Peace Corps and the “War on Poverty” educational program Head Start during the 1960s. His wife, Eunice Kennedy, founded the Special Olympics, which is currently headed by their son, Tim Shriver. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 18, 2011 Joe Lieberman to retire in 2012 A source close to Connecticut Senator Joe Lieberman reports to the Washington Post that the congressman will not seek re-election in 2012. (Read more: Washingtonpost.com) JANUARY 18, 2011 Regis Philbin to retire from daytime talk show Daytime talk show host Regis Philbin announced that he will exit his long-running program “Live! With Regis and Kelly” toward the end of this year. Philbin has been co-host of the show for 28 years with Kathie Lee Gifford, initially, (who left in 2000) and currently with Kelly Ripa. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 12, 2011 David Nelson of “Ozzie and Harriet” dies at age 74 David Nelson, son of Ozzie Nelson and Harriet Hilliard, died Tuesday at the age of 74. He starred in the popular show “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet” along with his mother, father and brother Rick. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 12, 2011 Tom Delay sentenced to 3 years in prison Former U.S. House Majority Leader Tom Delay has been sentenced to 3 years in prison and 10 years probation after he was found guilty of conspiracy to illegally influence Texas elections. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 12, 2011 Update – Doctors: Arizona congresswoman breathing on her own (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 8, 2011 Arizona congresswoman shot, 6 dead in shooting An Arizona supermarket was the scene of a mass murder spree when a gunman shot 20 people, leaving 6 dead. Arizona’s Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords (D – AZ) was among the victims and is listed in grave condition after emergency surgery on Saturday. Among the dead are a 9-year-old girl and a federal judge. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 8, 2011 Ex-Sen. Bob Dole back in the hospital after fever Ex-Sen. Bob Dole is back in the hospital after experiencing a recurrent fever. Dole had spent 10 months in Walter Reed Army Medical Center recuperating after knee surgery and a bout with pneumonia. He was recently released, but returned when the fever persisted. (Read more: WTOP.com) JANUARY 8, 2011 Homeless man with golden voice meets mother Ted Williams, the homeless man from Ohio with the golden voice who was recently discovered and catapulted to fame, reunited with his estranged mother on Friday on CBS’s “Early Show”. Williams’ sudden fame has garnered job offers from several media outlets. (Read more: WTOP.com) DECEMBER 26, 2010 8 Americans die in tour bus crash in Egypt A bus carrying American tourists through the south of Egypt collided with a truck carrying sand, killing 8 U.S. tourists and injuring 21 others. (Read more: Washington Post) DECEMBER 26, 2010 ‘Ivory Queen of Soul,’ Teena Marie dies at age 54 Teena Marie, donned the ‘Ivory Queen of Soul,’ by the R&B sector of the music industry, has died at the age of 54. Both her publicist, Jasmine Vega, who worked with Marie on her last album, and her manager, Mike Gardner, confirmed her death in Los Angeles today. The singer and musician topped the R&B music charts with such hits as “Square Biz” and “Lovergirl”. (Read more: WTOP.com) DECEMBER 21, 2010 Cancer-causing chemicals in DC, Bethesda water Both Bethesda and Washington, DC have been under the watchful eyes of researchers after the chemical chromium-6 — also known as hexavalent chromium – was discovered in the tap water of both cities. The chemical has been linked to stomach cancer, leukemia, anemia and kidney problems, among other diseases. (Read more: WTOP.com) 30 Rock’s Tracy Morgan has transplant Sitcom star of ’30 Rock’, Tracy Morgan, underwent a kidney transplant earlier this month as a result of complications from diabetes. (Read more: WTOP.com) DECEMBER 16, 2010 WikiLeaks founder released on bail WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was released on bail from a jail in London after a week of imprisonment for alleged rape charges. With backing from famous supporters, such as filmmaker Michael Moore, High Court Justice Duncan Ouseley warned Assange that after his release, fleeing “would diminish himself in the eyes of many of his supporters.” (Read more: WTOP.com) DECEMBER 16, 2010 Larry King hosts final show For Larry King, CNN has been a comfortable home for the past 25 years. King’s “Larry King Live” show will air its final show live with such stalwarts as Barbara Streisand to bid the host a farewell. CNN has indicated that King will work on other projects as he continues his scaled back activities within the company. (Read more: CNN.com) DECEMBER 16, 2010 Massive tax bill nears passage Thursday night’s vote on the tax bill has been described as “a mishmash of rejected Republican ideas that cost too much to accomplish too little,” says Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas. “The Republicans will rule the House for the next two years; let’s not give them an early start today,” Doggett insists. A two-year extension of tax cuts for wealthy as well as middle class Americans is the crux of the bill; these cuts originated under former President George Bush’s administration. (Read more: WTOP.com) DECEMBER 16, 2010 Mark Zuckerberg, “Person of the Year” Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has been awarded the prestigious cover of Time magazine’s “Person of the Year” issue. The esteemed recognition has been awarded to such persons as Winston Churchill, John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Adolf Hitler. (Read more: Time.com) DECEMBER 13, 2010 Richard Holbrooke, U. S. diplomat, Pentagon Papers writer, dies (AP) Richard Holbrooke, who was the chief constructor of the peace plan for Bosnia in 1995 under President Bill Clinton and special envoy to Pakistan and Afghanistan under the current administration, has died. Holbrooke was also a pivotal writer of the Pentagon Papers. He was 69. (Read more: WTOP.com) DECEMBER 13, 2010 Gwyneth Paltrow gets Walk of Fame star Actress Gwyneth Paltrow received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Monday, surrounded by admirers Faith Hill and Tim McGraw, who helped celebrate the honor. The Academy Award winner — for her role in “Shakespeare in Love” – unveiled the star in front of Madame Tussauds celebrity wax museum. (Read more: WTOP.com) DECEMBER 13, 2010 Va. judge wins first round against Obama health care law Virginia’s U. S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson struck down President Barack Obama’s health care law and ruled that it was unconstitutional for the U. S. government to require Americans under federal law to purchase health insurance. Opponents of the health care law argue that these health care provisions and decisions should be left up to state governments. (Read more: WTOP.com) DECEMBER 13, 2010 Rap star Ja Rule receives 2-year jail sentence Rapper Ja Rule was sentenced to two years in prison on Monday after a loaded .40-caliber pistol was found inside his Maybach. The Grammy nominee pled guilty to driving with a loaded gun following a Lil Wayne & Friends concert in 2007. (Read more: NYDailyNews.com
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DECEMBER 10, 2010
12-year-old Brittany Mae Smith was found alive earlier today with her alleged abductor taken into custody, authorities in Virginia say. (CNN.com) DECEMBER 10, 2010 Imprisoned Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo was honored in absentia with the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo on Friday. An empty chair symbolized Liu’s absence. China has decried the award and banned Liu, who is jailed in northeastern China, and his family from attending the ceremony. (WashingtonPost.com) DECEMBER 10, 2010 Homeless preacher Brian David Mitchell found guilty on two counts in 2002 kidnapping of Elizabeth Smart. (CNN.com) DECEMBER 11, 2010 Prince Charles and Camilla’s car attacked by student protesters in London; both unhurt. (CNN.com)
DECEMBER 7, 2010
UPDATE: Elizabeth Edwards has passed at age 61.
DECEMBER 7, 2010
Elizabeth Edwards gravely ill from cancer
Associated Press – Elizabeth Edwards, 61, and the wife of former Senator and presidential candidate, John Edwards is reportedly in the final stage of terminal cancer that has spread to her liver. Edwards in recent years has seen her husband attempt a presidential run and watched in the aftermath of his extramarital affair with Rielle Hunter, who worked on his presidential campaign. Elizabeth wrote on her Facebook page on Monday, (Elizabeth Edwards’ Facebook page) “The days of our lives, for all of us, are numbered. We know that. And yes, there are certainly times when we aren’t able to muster as much strength and patience as we would like. It’s called being human. But I have found that in the simple act of living with hope, and in the daily effort to have a positive impact in the world, the days I do have are made all the more meaningful and precious. And for that I am grateful.” She is currently in her North Carolina home surrounded by friends and family after doctors concluded that “further treatment from her cancer would be unproductive,” according to The Associated Press. The couple is separated and has three children and a son who was killed in a traffic accident at age 16. DECEMBER 7, 2010 WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange arrested, denied bail WikiLeaks founder, Julian Assange, in a London court tells officials that he will fight extradition to Sweden to face alleged sex-crimes. According to his lawyers, Swedish officials charge that Assange is a suspect in claims from two women from a “dispute over consensual but unprotected sex.” Assange contends that the claims have been exploited by political opposers. The London court denied bail to Assange, despite offers from prominent members of the public. DECEMBER 6, 2010 Rushern Baker sworn in as county executive, fires the chiefs Prince George’s County has a new county executive as Rushern Baker was sworn in after former county executive, Jack Johnson was removed due to corruption charges. Baker immediately fired both the police and fire chiefs and other agency heads after taking office. Johnson was indicted for alleged obstruction of justice and destroying evidence during a federal investigation. His wife, Leslie Johnson was also arrested on corruption charges. Despite protests from county residents, she was sworn in as a member of the city council. OCTOBER 16, 2010 “America’s mom”, June Cleaver of “Leave it to Beaver”, dies at age 94. Barbara Billingsley, who played the supportive and loving 1950s mother of young boys Beaver and Wally, (played by Jerry Mathers and Tony Dow, respectively) died in her Santa Monica home, according to family spokeswoman Judy Twersky. She had recently suffered from a rheumatoid disease. SEPTEMBER 15, 2010 UPDATE: Election Results — On a night filled with expectations and anxiety, both incumbent State Senator Jennie Forehand of Maryland and incumbent Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton of the District managed to top their opponents, despite an often heated campaign trail. On Wednesday, Forehand’s challenger, Cheryl Kagan called to concede the race as pollsters processed absentee votes. According to Forehand, Kagan simply did not “feel the votes were there” in the absentee ballots. Forehand admits that the campaign was one of the toughest she has experienced during her political career; however, it was the most rewarding. “It was a hard fought campaign, but well worth the time. It was a great opportunity to meet individually with constituents as I went door-to-door in almost every neighborhood in Rockville, Gaithersburg and Garrett Park.” A close associate remarked, “I didn’t think you had it in you,” Forehand recalled jokingly last night, but clearly many onlookers underestimated the long-time legislator. Kagan, a one-time friend of Forehand, dished out a campaign filled with attacks and unsubstantiated accusations that obviously did not register well with the voters of Montgomery County. In the end, Forehand’s legislative record and immense popularity overwhelmingly persuaded voters to send her back to Annapolis for another 4 years. The Washington Post endorsed Kagan early in the election, but on Wednesday, the final count was 52% Forehand, 49% Kagan. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton of the District single-handedly and convincingly defeated her opponent Douglass Sloan in a race that questioned Norton’s effectiveness in Congress and her ability to move Washington, DC forward in the future. Sloan accused Norton of being stagnant, particularly on the subject of DC voting rights in Congress. On the campaign trail, at times Sloan appeared disrespectful to the long-time and well-liked politician, who has garnered tremendous loyalty from her constituents over the years. In several scenes reminiscent of the Hillary Clinton/Rick Lazio senatorial fiasco in New York in 2000, Sloan seemed to overstep competitive boundaries and voters responded negatively. In the end, District voters resoundingly chose to send Norton back to Congress for another term. On Wednesday, the final count was 91% Norton, 9% Sloan. SEPTEMBER 3, 2010 ENDORSEMENT: DC Spotlight endorses Forehand of Maryland and Norton of DC For Senator Jennie Forehand’s tireless support of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, our editorial staff endorses her candidacy for State Senator of Maryland in District 17. In many ways, Forehand was a maverick in the Maryland State Senate, proposing legislation that most lawmakers have only recently endorsed openly. She was the leading proponent of Maryland’s smoke-free-state campaign, when the topic was not particularly popular with business owners. She recently proposed and helped pass legislation banning human-trafficking, which is generally a crime against young women. Much of Forehand’s legislation affects the daily lives of Marylanders, of which most residents might take for granted. She helped pass laws to raise the legal age allowed to purchase cigarettes and passed stringent drunk driving laws. She passed a law allowing mothers and infants to remain in the hospital a minimum of 48 hours. A law to prohibit cell phone use for drivers with a learner’s permit or provisional license was also a part of her legislation. At the DC Spotlight, we recognize the efforts of lawmakers who understand that sometimes in seeing the big picture, elected officials must enact laws that affect the lives of constituents who are victims of human trafficking, victims of abuse, the disabled, children or constituents who have the least among us. Forehand is still a go-getter after 16 years in the State Senate, where she continues passing cutting edge legislation. Washington, DC Delegate and Democratic incumbent Eleanor Holmes Norton has devoted the majority of her career to fighting for the rights of the residents in the District. From the battle for voting rights in Congress to the war on guns in the District, Norton has earned the title “The Warrior on the Hill”. In an economy where tourism is a valuable asset to the bottom lines of struggling states, Norton effortlessly promotes public events and attractions in DC. Recently, she helped sponsor “National Dance Day” on the Mall, where she led local residents as well as tourists in a celebration of dance that was aired nationally. Currently, she is working on two initiatives to continue the revitalization of the city: the Anacostia Watershed Initiative to clean up the Anacostia River and the National Mall Revitalization and Re-designation Act which would overhaul the National Mall and add amenities for tourists and residents. As Norton is on the brink of possibly securing voting rights for the District — if the NRA hurdle can be passed — she is mobilizing efforts to keep Washingtonians employed through the innovative Opportunities Center, where residents and business owners are trained and prepared for jobs, apprenticeships and contracts. Not to mention her annual endeavors to employ youths through the DC job fair. For her outstanding career as a public servant and her dedication to a city she promotes and supports tirelessly, the DC Spotlight endorses Eleanor Holmes Norton for the delegate seat in the District.
