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Liberty County constable hit by car undergoes surgery, listed in critical condition – Chron.com

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

By Vanesa Brashier and Dana Guthrie

Photo: Liberty County Sheriff's Office

Liberty County Precinct 1 Constable Justin Johnson is in critical condition after he was hit by a car on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2017.

Justin Johnston was sworn in as Constable Pct. 1 and took time to say thank you to the voters of his precinct for trusting him to run his office.

Liberty County constable hit by car undergoes surgery, listed in critical condition

A Liberty County constable who was hit by a car on Wednesday is in critical condition in an intensive care unit after a 3 a.m. surgery at Memorial Hermann Hospital.

Precinct 1 Constable Justin Johnston suffered a critical head injury while directing traffic at a park and ride lot on Highway 146 north of Mont Belvieu at about 5:15 p.m.

Investigators said the driver of a red pickup truck ignored a line of waiting vehicles and sped through a barricade, striking a sheriff's vehicle head-on.

FIERY CRASH: Bystander saves 3 men in Fifth Ward

The pickup then spun out sideways and hit Johnston, who was thrown into the air and struck his head on the ground. The rear wheel of the truck then ran over Johnston, Liberty County Sheriff's Capt. Ken DeFoor said in a release on Thursday, Feb. 16.

The driver of the pickup, 39-year-old Samuel Leyva, of Cleveland, and his 8-year-old daughter also were airlifted to Memorial Hermann Hospital for treatment.

According to Liberty County Sgt. Erik Burse, the child suffered minor injuries while Leyva's injuries are more extensive.

"A blood draw from Mr. Leyva was taken at the hospital. Charges are pending and the investigation is ongoing," Burse said.

SEX ON DUTY: Officers' alleged actions hampered 9-1-1 calls

Johnston is serving his first term as constable, having taken the oath of office in January 2017. He is the father of two children and a native of Liberty, Texas.

DeFoor said Liberty County deputies and constables have been assisting with traffic flow at this intersection for more than a year. The morning and evening traffic control is needed to allow construction workers to enter and leave the area safely.

He said there were six patrol cars in the area when this incident occurred, and all units had their emergency lights on.

Texas DPS is investigating, "and, hopefully, with time, can determine why someone would completely disregard all traffic control precautions and run over law enforcement personnel who were trying to control the traffic flow for the safety of others," DeFoor said.

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Liberty County constable hit by car undergoes surgery, listed in critical condition - Chron.com

Journalist Cancels Appearance on Real Time Because of Milo – The Libertarian Republic

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

LISTEN TO TLRS LATEST PODCAST:

By Kody Fairfield

A journalist, and frequent guest of Bill Mahers Real Time has cancelled his appearance on the show this Friday night because of Breitbart editor and conservative provocateurMilo Yiannopoulos being chosen as the lead guest, reportsDeadline.

The founder of the Intercept, Jeremy Scahill, has removed himself from the line up of the HBO political talk show in protest of Yiannopoulos saying in a statement released on Twitter that the booking of Milo is many bridges too far.

Deadline reports that Scahill has been a recurring guest on Mahers show over the past decade and that Scahill admits he might not always be popular with its audience.

[Maher]and his staff have created a vital platform for debate and discussion that at times I love and other times loathe, he wrote in the post. I know I fall into the latter category for some of the shows viewers because I hear from them every time I appear. Whatever one might say about Bill, he always allows guests to challenge him or disagree with him.

Scahill in his statement expressed that he believes Milo will incite violence against immigrants, transgender people, and others.

On Friday, a spokesperson for HBO told Deadlinethat Yiannopoulos would appear in the studio with Maher, and that, as with other weeks, an appropriate amount of security will be on hand.

Feeding the Homeless: Activist Stands Up to City Government – The Libertarian Republic

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

LISTEN TO TLRS LATEST PODCAST:

By Zach Foster

Most people are used to seeing signs that say, dont feed the animals, as those signs are posted in parks and zoos. Whatno one expects to see, however, are signs that say Do not feed the people, right?

One of the oldest traditions of Western civilization is giving alms to the poor, including feeding the homeless. The City of Los Angeles almost made it illegal to feed the homeless. This is how a group of activists stopped big government in its tracks.

In 2013, Los Angeles City Councilman Tom LaBonge introduced a motion before the City Council prohibiting anyone from feeding the homeless in public rights of way (sidewalks, street corners, open areas). The councilmen justified the motion on health and food safety reasons. Libertarian activist Angela McArdle had a problem with the motion.

Who are they to tell the people theyre not allowed to help the needy? says McArdle. According to the paralegal and Libertarian activist, she and her friends have been feeding the homeless for years. LaBonges rationalization for the motion was that it protected the homeless from food poisoning from improperly prepared food. If people wanted to help them, they would have to incorporate, become accountable to the IRS, open a kitchen, and have their facilities inspected by city, county, state, and federal bureaucrats.

Not all homeless people are out there on the corners asking for change. Most of them keep a low profileits so easy to get harassed or assaulted. A lot of them really do go hungry and need the help. If I want to make sandwiches at home and hand them to the homeless people I see on my way to work, thats my business.

One of the biggest problems with the motion proposed in the L.A. City Council is its typical of the current atmosphere. Very few cities in densely-populated California actually do anything to solve the problem of homelessness. Rather than developing and enacting policies to reduce homelessness, city councils go for the quick fix and make it illegal to be homeless.

By passing vagrancy laws, restricting the hours and use of public spaces, and making feeding the homeless in public spaces illegal, cities merely pass the buck as entire tent cities and homeless populations are legislated out of one city after another. They bounce around the L.A. County grid like ping pong balls.

Just recently, the City of L.A. made it illegal for people to sleep in their car, McArdle says. That infuriates me. My legal clients are people who were wrongfully evicted or foreclosed on. The first few nights, many of them have nothing but their car for them and their children to sleep in for that night. All the City government did was take away another safety net protecting people from the city streets at night.

Angela McArdle, paralegal and Libertarian activist

In addition to losing a layer of protection against the grittier kinds of people found on city streets and alleys, people in violation of this ordinance will be ticketed or possibly detained. That only creates another financial burden for the homeless, many of whom lost their homes due to financial struggles, not delinquent behavior. Restricting the public from feeding the homeless is one more burden on the latter group.

Angela McArdle and friends joined up with the non-profit Monday Night Mission to protest the indefensible motion. The protest was held on Hollywood and Vine, fittingly in the district of Tom LaBonge, sponsor of the anti-homeless motion. Nearly a thousand people attended and it was covered in the local L.A. TV stations. The overwhelming show of public opposition to the motion put an end to it before it was voted on.

Three years later, Tom LaBonge retired amidst allegations of misuse of $600,000 in taxpayer funds. The L.A. Times reported that the City Attorneys investigative task force has approved only $83,000 of the $600,000 spent by LaBonges office.

The defeat of the anti-homeless motion is an example of ordinary citizens standing up to government overreach. Libertarians often get discouraged because its so difficult electing Libertarians to high office. But what Angela McArdle and her friends did shows how city governments can be tyrannical too, not just the Feds, and that We the People have power over the bureaucrats who want to rule us.

Im proud we were able to make a difference, McArdle says with a broad smile, but even if the motion had passed, I would have broken that law a hundred times. Now thats the spirit! Not surprisingly, McArdle found a home for her activism in the Libertarian Party.

activismActivisthomelesshomelessnessLos Angeleslos angeles times

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Feeding the Homeless: Activist Stands Up to City Government - The Libertarian Republic

Rand Paul, to Libertarians Critical of His Sessions Vote: ‘I would … – Reason (blog)

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

Last week, Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) rankled many libertarians with his vote to confirm unreconstructed drug warrior and criminal justice reform opponent Jeff Sessions as Attorney General. Last night, the libertarian-leaning senator answered those critics and explained his vote on Fox Business Network's Kennedy program:

I think personal considerations; I've known him for a long time. I didn't like the way Democrats vilified and tried to create him into some sort of racist monster, which is not who he is. So the fact that they used character assassination, I didn't want to be associated with that.

But I can tell people, libertarians across the country, that there is no stronger voice in the U.S. Senate for opposing militarization of the police, opposing the drug war, opposing the surveillance state. And so if people want to apply a purity test to me they're more than welcome, but I would suggest that maybe they spend some of their time on the other 99 less libertarian senators.

You can watch the whole interview, which covers angry constituent townhalls, Paul's Obamacare-replacement bill, and whether the left is developing its own version of the Tea Party, below:

Paul's vote, you'll recall, was also couched in his ongoing opposition to President Trump appointing Elliott Abrams to the number-two slot at the State Department, an effort that at minimum coincided with success.

Paul's confirmation strategery has received praise from W. James Antle III and a sympathetic ear from his former co-author Jack Hunter, while prompting a BuzzFeed News piece titled "How Rand Paul Is Navigating The Trump Presidency."

Reason on Jeff Sessions here, on Rand Paul here.

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Rand Paul, to Libertarians Critical of His Sessions Vote: 'I would ... - Reason (blog)

Kihei – Maui, Hawaii | GoHawaii.com

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

Kihei

Kihei is beach-combing territory on Mauis southwest shore, the sunniest, driest end of the island. Once a regular destination for sojourning Hawaiian royalty, Kihei features six miles ofbeaches, which offer clear views of Kahoolawe,Molokini,LanaiandWest Maui. Along with swimming and surfing you can also find greatsnorkelingand kayaking, and you may even spot a giant humpback whale spouting or breaching the oceans surface.

Kiheis Kalama Beach Park has shady lawns and palm trees dotting its 36-oceanfront acres. A blink away are Kalpolepo, Waipuilani and the three beaches of Kamaole. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will find what theyre looking for at Kealia Pond on the north end of Kihei. This National Wildlife Conservation District features endangered Hawaiian stilts and coots.

Also north of Kihei is Maalaea Bay, where pleasure boats launch to take visitors onwhale watchingexpeditions, charter fishing excursions and snorkel trips to Molokini. Maalaea is also home to the family friendlyMaui Ocean Center.

The town has a collection of affordableaccommodations, with condominiums, small hotels and cottages to choose from along Kiheis beach road. You can also browse small shopping malls, a bustling farmers market and a spate of restaurants, all of which cater to residents and visitors alike.Nightlifehere includes karaoke spots, dance clubs and sports bars ensuring your Kihei nights are just as fun as your days.

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AdventureInHawaii.com | Big Island – AdventureInHawaii.com

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

The Big Island is the youngest and largest of the Hawaiian Islands, and thanks to Kilaueas constant eruption over the last 20 years, its still growing! The Big Island is almost twice as large as all other Hawaiian islands combined. While it is the biggest, it isnt the most populated there are about 186,700 residents. (Honolulu is NOT located here its on Oahu.) The Big Island is made up of five connected volcanoes, two of which are extinct, one is dormant, and two are very active Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Two mountains define the landscape of the Big Island. Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are over 13,700 feet tall, and their summits often get snow during winter months! Because the island is so young, there are miles and miles of lava flows that are less than 200 years old. There are fewer beaches here, but the few that have formed are incredibly beautiful. The Big Island offers the best scuba diving and snorkeling in the Hawaiian islands.

Most resorts are on the Kona side of the island, with the most exclusive resorts being found at Waikoloa and Kohala to the north. Hilo has a few hotels, but is the more local side of the island. Kona and Hilo both have major airports. The Big Island is 95 miles tall and 80 miles wide. Drive time from Kona to Hilo takes about 3 hours.

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AdventureInHawaii.com | Big Island - AdventureInHawaii.com

5 Reasons to Visit the Galpagos Islands This Year – Vogue.com

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

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5 Reasons to Visit the Galpagos Islands This Year - Vogue.com

I Went to the End of the Earth to Write My NovelHere’s What Happened – Vogue.com

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

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I Went to the End of the Earth to Write My NovelHere's What Happened - Vogue.com

Shetland Islands bid to BREAKAWAY from Scotland in revolt against Sturgeon’s indy bid – Express.co.uk

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

The Scottish First Minister's hopes to break away from the UK have once again been lambasted by councillors in the rugged island, which is desperate to remain part of Britain.

Political movement 'Wir Shetland' is now gathering momentum to consider plans to ensure the Shetland Islands stay in the UK if Ms Sturgeon gets her way.

Shetland councillor and leading figure in Wir Shetland, Andrea Manson, said: "It would be wonderful."

GETTY

Tavish Scott of Scotland's Liberal Democrat party, who represents Shetland in the Scottish Parliament, added: "Shetland certainly explored, and I think again will explore, what kind of constitutional future it wants."

The Shetlands were the only part of Britain, along with the Western Isles of Scotland, that voted against EEC membership in a 1975 referendum.

During Scotland's 2014 independence referendum, the unionist vote in the Shetlands was 63.7 per cent - one of the highest levels in Scotland.

But as Ms Sturgeon revealed a second referendum would be "highly likely" following Britain's decision to unshackle itself from the beleaguered bloc, islanders have become discontent.

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1 of 6

'Up Helly Aa' refers to any of a variety of fire festivals held annually in the Shetland Islands of Scotland, in the middle of winter to mark the end of the yule season. The spectacular event takes place annually on the last Tuesday of January.

We would like the freedom to get rid of some of the bureaucracy that comes down from the EU, Westminster and the Scottish parliament

Andrea Manson

The power struggle is engulfed around the islands, which land more fish than ports in England, Wales and Northern Ireland combined.

It is geographically and culturally closest to Scandinavia than Edinburgh and more politically aligned with Brussels and London.

Ms Mason said: "We would like control of the seabed around us, the fishing ground around us, and the freedom to get rid of some of the bureaucracy that comes down from the EU, Westminster and the Scottish parliament.

"Our seas are being plundered by foreign boats. We also contribute an enormous amount of money to the national economy through taxes, through the oil revenues, and yet we don't get back our fair share."

GETTY

It appears residents and councillors hope to adopt a similar path taken by the Faroe Islands, which have autonomous status within the Kingdom of Denmark.

Mr Mason added: "I don't suppose we would ever be allowed full independence.

"In an ideal world we would be a British overseas territory. We would be to Britain what Faroe is to Denmark."

Ms Sturgeon has used the Leave result in the historic EU referendum to push her case for a second independence referendum in a scathing attack against democracy.

However she faces an uphill struggle to keep Scotland in the EU following Britain's 52 to 48 per cent victory for the Leave camp.

GETTY

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Shetland Islands bid to BREAKAWAY from Scotland in revolt against Sturgeon's indy bid - Express.co.uk

Future Islands played Valentine’s Day @ Bowery Ballroom w/ Zack … – Brooklyn Vegan (blog)

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

The biggest moment of applause came about 30 seconds in to Future Islands biggest hit, their breakthrough hit, right when Sam T Herring was going to sing the first word of the song Seasons and, with expert timing, Gerrit Welmers keyboards completely crapped out. The song completely fell apart and Herring, who had been cracking jokes with the crowd all night, laughed, remarking that theyre still figuring things out after taking almost a year off to make the forthcoming The FarField. They quickly got things working again with the crowd picking back up, too, but Herring had had them in his pocket since walking out on stage.

Future Islands have many very catchy songs, but the bands appeal lives or dies with Herring, who is part Pentecostal preacher, part lounge singer, part Tony Monero, part motivational preacher, and pugilist shadowboxing a title fight. When hes not busting the moves that made Letterman a fan, hes acting out lyrics, frequently picking imaginary cherries from the vine, eating and then admiring the stems. He is 100% in the moment and sometimes, like after playing new song Cave, seemed entirely, emotionally drained. He ripped his pants and his shirt last night. You cannot take your eyes off him.

This surprise Valentines Day gift, complete with free Future Islands grade-school style valentines at the merch table, was one of a few small shows the Baltimore band have been playing to get their sea legs back before the release of The FarField. We got about half that, including first single Ran, and all of which were very much in the mold of 2014s Singles. Solely judging by Sams into it level, Day Glow Fire seems a likely future (islands) single. There were plenty of familiar favorites, too, and main set-ender Spirit seemed to get the biggest crowd reaction. They returned for a three-song encore. Fun show and nice to see them somewhere small, where Sam noted theyve played a few record release shows, unlike their next scheduled NYC date. Bowery Ballroom setlist, and video of them playing Ran, is below.

Opening the night were Future Islands North Carolina buddies Zack Mexico, who came up just for this show and make a new wave-y brand of surf rock with a two-drummer, three-guitar attack. (They seemed like a band who mightve toured with Oingo Boingo in 1982.) What they lacked in Big Hooks they made up for with super tight playing and exuberance. They were a lot of fun. Pictures from their set, and more of Future Islands, in the gallery above.

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SETLIST: Future Islands @ Bowery Ballroom 2/14/2017 Through the Roses Aladdin * Ran * Long Flight Balance Cave * Time on Her Side * Candles * Beauty of the Road * Day Glow Fire * A Dream of You and Me Seasons (Waiting on You) Walking Through That Door Tin Man Spirit

Encore: Light House Vireos Eye Inch of Dust

*new song

photos by Amanda Hatfield

Explore Pine Island Sound through new book, lectures – The News-Press

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

Cathy Chestnut, Special to The News-Press Published 1:13 p.m. ET Feb. 16, 2017 | Updated 4 hours ago

Captain Samuel Ellis and his neighbor Commodore Edwin Reed are pictured. Denge Pattersons new book features illustrations, maps, historic images, wildlife photos and an extensive index and bibliography.(Photo: Courtesy of Sanibel Public Library)

What does mondongo mean? What has drawn inhabitants for a dozen millennia to Pine Island Sound? Why was a lodge constructed from whelk shells and concrete built on remote Demere Key? How have sea-level fluctuations impacted these unique island gems?

Released this month, A Tour of the Islands of Pine Island Sound, Florida: Their Geology, Archaeology, and History explores the captivating history of 24 islands that have borne witness to thousands of years of human inhabitation and cultural and botanical evolution.

These islands have an amazing story to tell. Archaeologists and geologists are just now discovering what is here for us to understand, said author Denge Patterson. This first-of-its-kind book includesinformation which has not been readily available to the general public.

Patterson, a 17-year volunteer veteran at the Randell Research Center on Pineland, is giving a series of talks this Saturday and on Saturday, Feb. 25, at the Research Centers Calusa Heritage Trail to kick off the books launch. Patterson spent three years researching the 160-page, full-color book that was edited by William H. Marquardt, Ph.D., Florida Museum of Natural History archaeology and ethnography curator, and the Research Centers director.

Marquardt said the book offers an in-depth exploration of this significant gateway of American history, as well as the role that mangroves and seagrasses play in the health of the estuary, important for fishing and for Lee Countys economy, which is based on attracting people to a healthy environment.

Author Denge Patterson is giving a series of talks at the Research Centers Calusa Heritage Trail to kick off her new books launch.(Photo: Special to The News-Press)

Patterson has volunteered on excavations, and as a tour guide, lab assistant, boat tour narrator and writer. A retired family therapist, she wrote the book for free, and hired photographer Ron Mayhew, who suspended himself from a helicopter to capture the books stunning aerial photographs. The book also features illustrations, maps, historic images, wildlife photos and an extensive index and bibliography.

All proceeds from the $29.95 book benefit the endowment that pays for programming at the nonprofit Randell Research Center, once a major settlement of the indigenous Calusa people. Today, the 70-acre site is run by the Florida Museum of Natural History, though it is mostly funded through memberships, donations and endowment interest. The book is on sale at the Calusa Heritage Trail and will be available soon at local retail outlets.

The stories of the islands

Patterson, a certified Florida Master Naturalist, was amazed to learn that 21 of the 24 featured islands many preserved and protected by the stateserved unique functions. Each of those islands was treated differently by indigenous people during different eras, she said, as villages, food-collection sites, tool-making workshops and burial sites. Some islands were occupied for thousands of years, then abandoned for a few hundred years, and then were occupied again, she said.

The rich estuarine environment teeming with fish and shellfish that provided the seafood-based Calusa their sustenance was the same draw for successions of others, from Cuban fisherfolk who set up seasonal fish camps to European interlopers to adventurous sailors and pioneers.

Each island has its own storytheir location, geology, archeology, historic and modern eras spotlighted in individual chapters. As a result, Patterson notes, the reader may devour the book in any order they want.

Readers will learn that a spear tip found on Useppa Island dates to 8000 to 6500 B.C. Cuban fishermen were granted commercial fishing rights in Pine Island Sound by the Calusa as early as 1687. The Seminole were twice promised they would receive Sanibel Island as a reservation. These islands have served as military outposts, fishing resorts, farms, trading posts, major fishing operations, retreats for Native American and black refugees fleeing hostility or slavery, and moonshining and smuggling.

Though the human history is by turns colorful and poignant, Patterson wants to impart the importance of the regions ecologyits mangrove forests, seagrass meadows, mudflats and tidal dynamics.

Each island and its inhabitants in Pine Island were unique and most served different functions.(Photo: Courtesy of Denege Patterson)

The most important part of the book is Chapter One, which has some astonishing and amazing facts explaining why these islands are so remarkable in doing their job of nurturing, feeding, and creating a plume of life on an unimaginable scale, she said. This is a place where the indigenous people were wealthy without having any money.

If you go

What: Author talks on A Tour of the Islands of Pine Island Sound, Florida: Their Geology, Archaeology, and History and sales to benefit the nonprofit Randell Research Center

Where: Calusa Heritage Trail, 13810 Waterfront Drive, Pineland on Pine Island

When: This Saturday and Saturday, Feb. 25, at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., and 2 p.m.

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Explore Pine Island Sound through new book, lectures - The News-Press

Davis Islands resident sues to block taller gate at Derek Jeter mansion – Tampabay.com

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

TAMPA A Davis Islands resident last week filed a lawsuit to block a taller gate that City Hall has approved for retired New York Yankees star Derek Jeter's waterfront mansion.

Deborah Zomermaand, who lives about 700 feet from Jeter's home on Bahama Circle, is challenging a decision by the city's Variance Review Board last month to allow Jeter to raise the height of a gate into his home from 6 to 8 feet at its highest point and to make it opaque so that passers-by cannot see into the estate.

A representative for Jeter, who last year married model Hannah Davis, and neighbors told the city that as many as 100 visitors a day stop in front of Jeter's 30,000-square-foot mansion to snap photos, hope for a glimpse of the its famous owner and, in extreme cases, wander onto the property, trample the landscaping or fly drones overhead.

In her lawsuit, Zomermaand contends that the Variance Review Board exceeded its authority, denied her due process, did not remain true to the city's comprehensive land-use plan, made decisions not supported by evidence and approved a variance from city rules for a "self-created hardship" that was not related to the property itself. The suit names the city and Jeter as defendants and asks a judge to quash the board's decision.

Davis Islands resident sues to block taller gate at Derek Jeter mansion 02/15/17 [Last modified: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 2:51pm] Photo reprints | Article reprints

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Davis Islands resident sues to block taller gate at Derek Jeter mansion - Tampabay.com

Five Islands and United get wins in battle for lone promotion spot – Antigua Observer

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

Five Islands remained in the hunt for automatic promotion to the Premier Division when, on Tuesday, they rallied to a 1-0 victory over First Division leaders Swetes in the Football Associations programme in Five Islands.

The victory was crucial to Five Islands chances as they, on 39 points, remained ahead of All Saints United who also tasted victory on Tuesday to move to 37 points.

Cuban import, Fernandez Cevante Sander, was Tuesdays hero, scoring Five Islands lone goal in the first half. They are six points off Swetes who have already gained promotion to the top flight.

Meanwhile, Keron Richards struck in minute 58 while defender Terry Roberts scored an own goal in minute 80 as United triumphed over Ottos Rangers when they met in Radio Range.

The All Saints men are two points behind second placed Five Islands as they continue to play for the lone remaining automatic promotion spot.

The loss saw Rangers fall out of the two-team playoff spot on 33 points, three points adrift of fourth placed Villa Lions who defeated Freemans Village Scorpions on Tuesday to move to 36 points.

Scorpions remain on 29 points and sixth in the 12-team standings.

The competition continues Thursday when Lion Hill host Bendals, Hill Top travel to Potters to take on the Tigers and Point West Ham host Fort Road.

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Five Islands and United get wins in battle for lone promotion spot - Antigua Observer

New research facility opens at Greenwood Genetics Center – Greenville News

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

Self Regional Hall(Photo: Craig Mahaffey/Clemson University)

A new facility that will house the Clemson University Center for Human Genetics has opened at the Greenwood Genetic Center.

The 17,000-square-foot structure, named Self Regional Hall, will allowClemsons growing genetics program to collaborate closely withresearchers at the center and to focus on early diagnostic tools for autism, cognitive developmental disorders, cancer and rare metabolic disorders.

Opening Self Regional Hall means that we will be able to do even more to help children with genetic disordersand their families, and to educate graduate students who will go out into the world and make their own impact, said Clemson University President James P. Clements, who has a child with special needs.

As you all know," he added, "an early diagnosis can make a huge difference for a child and their family because the earlier you can figure out what a child needs the earlier you can intervene and begin treatment.

The building will house eight laboratories and several classrooms, conference rooms and offices for graduate students and faculty, officials said.

GCC director Dr. Steve Skinner said the facilityis the nextstep in a collaboration of more than 20 years.

"We look forward to our joint efforts with both Clemson and Self Regional Healthcare to advance the research and discoveries that will increase our understanding and treatment of human genetic disorders, he said.

For more information about GGC, go towww.ggc.org.

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Clemson Center for Human Genetics unveils new facility on Greenwood Genetic Center campus – Clemson Newsstand

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

GREENWOOD Self Regional Hall, a new 17,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility that will house the Clemson University Center for Human Genetics, has opened on the campus of the Greenwood Genetic Center.

Self Regional Hall, a new 17,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility that will house the Clemson University Center for Human Genetics. Image Credit: Craig Mahaffey / Clemson University

The facility will enable Clemsons growing genetics program to collaborate closely with the long tradition of clinical and research excellence at the Greenwood Genetic Center, combining basic science and clinical care. The center will initially focus on discovering and developing early diagnostic tools and therapies for autism, cognitive developmental disorders, oncology and lysosomal disorders.

Opening Self Regional Hall means that we will be able to do even more to help children with genetic disorders, and their families, and to educate graduate students who will go out into the world and make their own impact, said Clemson University President James P. Clements.

As the parent of a child with special needs the kind of research that you are doing here is especially meaningful and important to me and my family, Clements said during the event. As you all know, an early diagnosis can make a huge difference for a child and their family because the earlier you can figure out what a child needs the earlier you can intervene and begin treatment.

Jim Pfeiffer (left), president and CEO of Regional Healthcare, and Clemson President James P. Clements unveil a commemorative plaque. Image Credit: Craig Mahaffey / Clemson University

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in six children between the ages of 3 and 17, roughly 15 percent, suffers from a developmental disorder.

Self Regional Hall is a state-of-the-art facility that provides the resources our scientists need to understand the genetic underpinnings of disorders, said Mark Leising, interim dean of the College of Science at Clemson. This facility, and its proximity to the Greenwood Genetic Center, elevates our ability to attract the brightest scientific talent to South Carolina and enhances our efforts to tackle genetic disorders.

The building will house eight laboratories and several classrooms, conference rooms and offices for graduate students and faculty.

The facilitys name recognizes the ongoing support from Self Regional Healthcare, a healthcare system in Upstate South Carolina that has grown from the philanthropy of the late James P. Self, a textile magnate who founded Self Memorial Hospital in 1951.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was originally scheduled for September 2016, but was delayed because of the death of state Sen. John Drummond, an ardent supporter of the Greenwood Genetic Center who helped bring Self Regional Hall to fruition.

Image Credit: Craig Mahaffey / Clemson University

Self Regional Healthcares vision is to provide superior care, experience and value. This vision includes affording our patients with access to cutting-edge technology and the latest in healthcare innovation and genomic medicine, without a doubt, is the future of healthcare, said Jim Pfeiffer, president and CEO of Self Regional Healthcare. The research and discoveries that will originate from this center will provide new options for those individuals facing intellectual and developmental disabilities, and will provide our organization with innovative capabilities and treatment options for our patients.

We are pleased to welcome Clemson University to Greenwood as the first academic partner on our Partnership Campus, added Dr. Steve Skinner, director of the Greenwood Genetic Center. This is the next great step in a collaboration that has been developing over the past 20-plus years. We look forward to our joint efforts with both Clemson and Self Regional Healthcare to advance the research and discoveries that will increase our understanding and treatment of human genetic disorders.

END

Greenwood Genetic CenterThe Greenwood Genetic Center (GGC), founded in 1974, is a nonprofit organization advancing the field of medical genetics and caring for families impacted by genetic disease and birth defects. At its home campus in Greenwood, South Carolina, a talented team of physicians and scientists provides clinical genetic services, diagnostic laboratory testing, educational programs and resources, and research in the field of medical genetics.GGCs faculty and staff are committed to the goal of developing preventive and curative therapies for the individuals and families they serve.GGC extends its reach as a resource to all residents of South Carolina with satellite offices in Charleston, Columbia, Florence and Greenville. For more information about GGC, please visitwww.ggc.org.

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Clemson Center for Human Genetics unveils new facility on Greenwood Genetic Center campus - Clemson Newsstand

Otzi the Iceman: Researchers validate the stability of genetic markers – Phys.Org

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

February 16, 2017 Researchers found short ribonucleic acid molecules (microRNA) even in mummies like Oetzi. Credit: Andreas Keller, Saarland University

Biomarkers are biological attributes that can give doctors or researchers clues about the health status or illnesses of a patient. Scientists are placing great hope in a new type of biomarker, so-called microRNAs. These short ribonucleic acid molecules are notable for their very high level of stability. Researchers at Saarland University, the University of Luxembourg and the Eurac Research center in Bozen have now established that such microRNAs can remain stable even after 5,300 years.

They have found the molecules in the well-known glacier mummy "tzi". A number of facts have been scientifically proven about the glacier mummy, known as "the Iceman" or "tzi," found in the tztal Alps (South Tyrol) in 1991. Through imaging techniques, we know about degeneration in his lumbar spine and a fatal arrow wound in his left shoulder. DNA analyses showed that tzi was lactose intolerant, and had brown eyes and blood type 0. Now a study of tzi's microRNAs has also been completed. MicroRNAs are very small pieces of ribonucleic acid (RNA) and play a central role in the regulation of genes.

Although these molecules are very stable in tissues, prior to this study it was unclear whether they could still be found in human tissues after thousands of years. Therefore, Professors Andreas Keller and Eckart Meese of Saarland University, Stephanie Kreis of the University of Luxembourg, and Professor Albert Zink and Frank Maixner of Eurac Research in Bozen took on the challenge. They analyzed not only tissue samples from the Iceman, but also those from a mummy of a soldier fallen in World War I. "Our investigation provides evidence that we can analyze microRNA even after thousands of years," explains Andreas Keller, Professor of Clinical Bioinformatics at Saarland University, who coordinated the study.

The scientists took samples from tzi's skin, stomach, and stomach contents. "It was a challenge to extract this genetic material in significant quantities and sufficient quality from the mummified tissue samples, and to measure and quantify it with the newest, very precise methods," reports Stephanie Kreis, who isolated the microRNAs at the University of Luxembourg. Some molecules were found that were present predominantly in the ancient tissues. Conversely, some of the biomarkers that are well-known today were not found in tzi. According to Professor Zink from Eurac Research, the microRNAs are the next important class of molecules from tzi to receive intensive examination.

Professor Meese, head of the Institute of Human Genetics at Saarland University, claims that the stability of these biomarkers is also important for people today. "It is vital for clinical applications," explains Meese. "It's evident that the potential of microRNA is much greater than we previously thought. We still don't know enough about how these molecules influence specific genes, entire gene families, or biochemical reaction pathways. When we investigate this further, it's possible microRNAs will become new stars in therapy. Until then, however, there is a lot more work to do," concludes Professor Keller.

Explore further: Scientists discover helicobacter pylori in the contents of Otzi's stomach

More information: Andreas Keller et al, miRNAs in ancient tissue specimens of the Tyrolean Iceman, Molecular Biology and Evolution (2016). DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msw291

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Microsoft Takes Another Crack at Health Care, This Time With Cloud, AI and Chatbots – Bloomberg

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

Microsoft Corp. is trying again in health care, betting its prowess in cloud services and artificial-intelligence can helpit expand in a market that's been notoriously hard for technology companies.

A new initiative called Healthcare NExT will combine work from existing industry players andMicrosoft's Research and AIunits to help doctors reduce data entry tasks, triage sick patients more efficiently and ease outpatient care.

"I want to bring our research capabilities and our hyper-scale cloud to bear so our partners can have huge success in the health-care world," said Peter Lee, a Microsoft Research vice president who heads Healthcare NExT.

Microsoft has tried to expand in health care before, with mixed results. It had a Health Solutions Group for many years, but combined that into a joint venture with General Electric Co. Last year, it sold its stake to GE.

Microsoft unveiled the new effort ahead of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society conference next week.

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Microsoft want to use things like speech and natural language recognition technology to replace manual data entry by doctors, Lee said.

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There's also a new Microsoft project called HealthVault Insights that works with fitness bands, Bluetooth scales and other connected devices to make sure patients stick to their care plan when they leave the hospital or doctor's office.

Many companies, like International Business Machines Corp. and AlphabetInc.'s Verily, are developing similar technology. However, the healthcare industry has been slow to adopt essential enabling technologylike electronic records. Entrenched, legacysystems and rigorous regulation are also obstacles, said Malay Gandhi, co-founder ofEnsemble Labs, which invests in health-care startups.

"The industry wasn't built as a tech-enabled industry," he said. Some large tech companies "aretrying to sprinkle AI or machine learning over the top of existing systems and I view that as misguided. We might need to rebuild these businesses with tech at the center."

Lee found the space daunting when Microsoft Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella asked him to take it on.

"At first it felt like he threw me into the middle of the Pacific Ocean and asked me to find land and you see others swimming around aimlessly and beneath you people are drowning," Lee said. "Big technology firms have tried this and failed."

This time, Microsoft aims to support existing health-care organizationswith cloud services and AI software, rather than launch company-branded products that may compete with existing industry players, he said.

"We know health care will become more patient-focused, more cloud-based and that AI will make health care more data-driven. We just dont know when and and how it will come together," he said "But we can position Microsoft to be there when all these changes happen."

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Microsoft Takes Another Crack at Health Care, This Time With Cloud, AI and Chatbots - Bloomberg

Top and Bottom Earners Responsible for Most Health Care Spending, Study Shows – SHRM

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

SHRM

Top and Bottom Earners Responsible for Most Health Care Spending, Study Shows
SHRM
High-wage earners spend the most, per patient, on health care in the U.S., a new study finds. But the lowest-wage workers were the next biggest spenders on health care. In a Goldilocks scenario, those earning in the middle ranges were the least apt to ...
Top and bottom earners account for most healthcare spending, Health Affairs study findsHealthcare Finance News
2017 Health Care Heroes | Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia, innovations in health careVirginian-Pilot

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Top and Bottom Earners Responsible for Most Health Care Spending, Study Shows - SHRM

AARP: ‘Age Tax’ Means Healthcare Price Hikes for Older Americans – Fox Business

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

As GOP lawmakers work toward creating a just-right repeal and replace plan for Obamacare, some legislation being introduced has touched a nerve for AARP and older Americans.

In a letter to the Chairman and Ranking member of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, AARP Senior Vice President Joyce Rogers lashed out against the recently introduced State Age Rating Flexibility Act of 2017, legislation that would allow insurers to charge older Americans significantly more for health insurance.

This legislation has a simple explanation -- it would be an age tax -- charging older Americans not yet eligible for Medicare a penalty of five times what others must pay for health insurance. The term age rating is Washington-speak for overcharging older Americans by thousands of dollars for their health care, AARP Executive Vice President Nancy LeaMond told FOX Business.

Under the ACA, insurers can charge its oldest enrollees up to three times as much as the youngest adult enrollees. The new proposal would change the age rating ratio to 5:1 or even higher. According to a new study from AARPs Public Policy Institute conducted by the independent actuarial firm Milliman, under this proposal, on average, adults age 60 and older would see their insurance bills go up by $3,200 making their average annual premium a whopping $17,900.

LeaMond discussed with FOX Business what you need to know.

Boomer:What other financial burdens might Boomers face with health-care coverages, if this bill is passed?

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LeaMond:Charging older Americans five times more for the same coverage just isnt fair and AARP will fight to hold our elected officials accountable for taxing older American families with a burden they dont deserve. Seniors already spend one out of every six dollars on healthcarethey cant afford to spend more.

A typical senior without insurance in the individual market has a median income of only $20,000. Asking moderate and middle income older Americans to pay over $3,000 more out of pocket for insurance will put a major squeeze on other necessities. And, this group is already dealing with added expenses from the high prices of prescription drugs.

Add to that the fact that many parents pay for their childrens insurance until they turn twenty-six, a bill many are happy to foot, but that certainly adds to their financial burden.

Boomer: What is AARP doing to deter the passage of this bill?

LeaMond:This week, AARP launched a new campaign to stop the age tax that includes advertising and recess visits by AARP staff and volunteers to members of Congress in the states. AARPs latest efforts come in addition to our continued advocacy of members of Congress and the Trump administration about the age tax.

AARP visits with members of Congress will include vocal opposition to the age tax. Our latest efforts follow letters we have sent that lay out the negative impact of the age tax. The ads also come as an addition to AARPs Medicare campaign, which takes on premium support, a proposal that would harm Medicare beneficiaries by turning the successful program into a private voucher program.

We are encouraging our members to call their representatives in Congress at 844-617-2688 and urge them to oppose H.R. 708, the bill that would allow insurance companies to charge 50- to 64-year-olds thousands of dollars more for their health care. Remind Congress they should be standing up for their constituents, not insurance companies.You can also send a message to your Representative by going to the following website.

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AARP: 'Age Tax' Means Healthcare Price Hikes for Older Americans - Fox Business

Trump says he’ll submit healthcare reforms in early or mid-March – Reuters

Posted on February 16, 2017 by Danzig

WASHINGTON President Donald Trump said on Thursday he would be submitting planned reforms to the Affordable Care Act in early March or mid-March.

"We're doing Obamacare, we're in the final stages," Trump told a news conference, adding: "So we will be submitting sometime in early March, mid-March."

Trump ran for the White House last year on a promise to repeal and replace the signature healthcare program of his predecessor President Barack Obama known as Obamacare.

(Reporting by Susan Heavey; Writing by Eric Walsh)

WASHINGTON In a heated moment during his unconventional and combative news conference on Thursday, President Donald Trumps command of the facts was openly challenged by a reporter who asked, Why should Americans trust you?

WASHINGTON The U.S. Senate on Thursday voted to advance the nomination of President Donald Trump's pick to run the Environmental Protection Agency and a final vote could occur on Friday.

NEW YORK/CHICAGO Restaurants and other businesses around the United States shut their doors on Thursday and thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of cities across the country in a walkout aimed at protesting President Donald Trump's policies.

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Trump says he'll submit healthcare reforms in early or mid-March - Reuters

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