U.S. Intelligence Chief Warns Of More Attacks

Washington, DC, United States (AHN) - The dust on the weekly address from U.S. President Barack Obama had not yet settled down when came the scathing remarks from Michael E. Leiter, the Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) reminding the Americans "the insidious terrorist threats," faced by them.


Leiter punched his statement with an underlying threat of more attacks after referring to the failed bid of December 25 on the Detroit bound transatlantic flight originating in NIgeria.

The intelligence chief minced no words saying, "While this attempt ended in failure we know with absolute certainty that Al-Qa'ida and those who support its ideology continue to refine their methods to test our defenses and pursue an attack on the Homeland."

Obama in his speech earlier today had used stern criticism of the intelligence services for failing to prevent the December 25 attack, despite warning signs.

President Obama had expressed his disappointment with the intelligence services as he promised, "(to make sure) these communities-and the people in them-are coordinating effectively and are held accountable at every level. And as President, that is what I will do."

"Our most sacred responsibility is to be focused on our mission -- detecting and preventing terrorist attacks from happening on our soil and against U.S. interests," Leiter said. "The American people expect and deserve nothing less."

It is an ironic scenario of history repeating itself as the NCTC was created in 2004 to coordinate efforts between U.S. intelligence agencies, whose failure to share information was lambasted by the commission looking into the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks.

Today, after the Dec 25 attack, again the fingers are pointed at the failure of the U.S. intelligence agencies to coordinate and share information despite the formation of the NCTC.

Source:allheadlinenews.com/

American Airlines Flight 331 from Washington D.C. to Kingston, Jamaica Crashes Upon Landing, Splits in Two

American Airlines Flight 331 traveling from Washington D.C. to Kingston, Jamaica crashed upon landing and split in two late Tuesday evening.



According to reports the plane overshot the runway after attempting to land in severe storms, crashed and then broke in half. There were no immediate reports of casualties but several passengers were taken to hospitals near Norman Manley International Airport.



While American Airlines Flight 331 originated in D.C. it stopped in Miami before continuing to Kingston.

Source:transworldnews.com/

Unemployed on Labor Day? - September 3, 2009

Labor Day 2009 could become “Train for a New Career” Day for many unemployed workers in Washington.

Under a new state law that takes effect on Sept. 7, unemployed workers in Washington who are disabled, low-income, members of the Washington National Guard or recently discharged from the military may take advantage of a training-support program that previously was available only to dislocated workers.

The Training Benefits Program is operated by the Employment Security Department. It allows qualified workers to receive unemployment benefits for up to 52 weeks, rather than the usual maximum of 26 weeks, while enrolled in approved training for a new occupation. Unlike other unemployment claimants, training-benefits participants don’t have to look for a new job while they’re enrolled in training.

The program was created in 2000 for workers who were deemed unlikely to return to their previous occupation or industry, and who needed training to qualify for jobs that are in demand locally. The primary beneficiaries have been displaced manufacturing workers who also qualified for unemployment benefits.

But there are many other unemployed workers who also need training to improve their job prospects, said Employment Security Commissioner Karen Lee, who advocated the program’s expansion.

“Until now, this program wasn’t available for many of our workers who need it the most,” said Lee. “These are people who have a track record of holding down a job or serving our country, and who need a little help to get back to work in a career that has a future.”

The Training Benefits Program pays only for weekly unemployment benefits. Enrollees are responsible for paying or obtaining financial aid for tuition, fees and other training expenses.

“Training and education help workers stay employed and earn more,” said Lee. “With training benefits, we can put that option within reach for more people who are struggling to make a better life for themselves.”

Since unemployment benefits are paid on a Sunday-through-Saturday schedule, training benefits for newly eligible enrollees who have been approved for the program will begin on Sept. 13.

To participate, eligible workers must submit a training plan within 90 days (and enroll in an approved training program within 120 days) after they receive their unemployment claims kit from Employment Security. The kit contains information about the Training Benefits Program.

Information and application packets also are available by phone (800-318-6022), by visiting a local WorkSource Office or online (http://www.esd.wa.gov/uibenefits/specialservices/training/training-benefits.php).

Details of expanded eligibility criteria
Unemployed workers who: · Were disabled by an injury or illness and need training for a new occupation.

· Earned less than 130 percent of the state’s minimum wage in their qualifying year and need training to get a higher-paying job. For example, a worker whose qualifying year is 2009 would have to average less than $11.11 an hour to be eligible (based on the 2009 minimum wage of $8.55 an hour).

· Were honorably discharged from the military or the Washington National Guard in the prior 12 months and who need training to find suitable work in their community.

· Are current members of the Washington National Guard who need training to find a suitable job locally.