Thanks....
To our listeners, guests, crew and sponsors who make the Yo Soy Latino show possible a warm and heartfelt thank you.
Yo Soy Latino Radio has been bringing great radio to your neighbors, friends, family, and to you (our listeners) for the past two years. We have done so with help and advertisers like you. But like everyone else in this tough economy we’ve had to tighten our belts and made choices to keep quality programming alive.
If we are to keep the doors open, the lights on and maintain great quality programming like this on the air in Central Florida given these tough economic times, WE NEED YOUR HELP! Your generous contribution today to the Yo Soy Latino Radio Show will fuel its commitment to bringing Central Florida’s focus on public media.
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You can talk with the host on air by calling the station’s guestline at 407-774-0810 every Saturday from 12-1 p.m.
Cool Trivia...
June 18, 2011
1873 – Susan B. Anthony fined $100 for attempting to vote for President
1898 – First amusement pier opens in Atlantic City, NJ
1903 – 1st transcontinental auto trip begins in SF; arrives in NY 3 months later
1928 – Amelia Earhart becomes 1st female to fly across Atlantic Ocean
1934 – US Highway planning surveys nationwide authorized
1941 – Joe Louis KOs Billy Conn in 13 for heavyweight boxing title
1948 – UN Commission on Human Rights adopts Int’l. Declaration of Human Rights
1959 – 1st telecast transmitted from England to US
1963 – 3,000 blacks boycott Boston public school
1968 – Supreme Court bans racial discrimination in sale and rental of housing
1979 – US Pres Carter & Soviet Pres Leonid Brezhnev sign SALT II treaty
1981 – The AIDS epidemic is formally recognized by medical professional in San Francisco, CA
1986 – 52 die in plane/helicopter collision over Grand Canyon
1993 – Expo’s Dennis Martinez is 92nd to win 200 games
1994 – Gay Games open in NYC
2006 – The first Kazakh space satellite, KazSat is launched
Movies...
Top 10 Box Office
June 18, 2011
1. Super 8
2. X-Men: First Class
3. The Hangover Part II
4. Kung Fu Panda 2
5. Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
6. Bridesmaids
7. Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer
8. Midnight in Paris
9. Thor
10. Fast Five
Opening This Week:
Green Lantern
Mr. Popper’s Penguins
The Art of Getting By
Buck
Jig
Kidnapped
Movie Review:
Super 8 — rating: 3.5 STARS
Super 8 surprisingly enough was a cohesive film from start to finish. There are definite signs of collaboration between Steven Spielberg and J. J. Abrams at least in the style. The adding of an extraterrestrial, the suspense, and a cast predominately children or in this case adolescence which is indicative of Spielberg’s earlier films. Then when you add a little mystery, the kind that has made Abrams famous for and are clearly found in this film, you have a pretty decent story line.
Super 8 is a lot fun to watch, especially if you are a Sci-fi fan. It is a creature feature, a first-love romance; and, a film that is sure to rekindle the child in all of us. The story resolves around a group of ordinary kids doing something extraordinary, often in spite of the adults. Of course like any other story, there is a big showdown. However, what makes this movie unique is the script for it puts the story and characters before everything else. Overall, the film was near perfect but it is not about the journey rather its final destination. AND, it doesn’t hurt that the cinematography is excellent and the visuals well done.
Sponsored by:
Father Natures
Right off of Oakridge Road at 5816 Makoma Drive
Telephone: 407-850-5911
Breaking News...
World and Local News
June 18, 2011
Governor defends Welfare Drug Test
Orlando (CNN) — Appearing on CNN, Florida Governor Rick Scott claimed that “studies” have shown that people on welfare are higher users of drugs than people who are not on welfare. When pressed to provide this statement, Scott again referred to unnamed “studies,” but provided no actual evidence. When Scott was pressed on the potential cost of the drug-testing program, he didn’t have a firm answer, saying it will depend on how many people pass or fail the test. Scott, whose company was behind the biggest Medicare fraud in U.S. history, claims that he is just trying to save Florida taxpayer money.
Hundreds at Orlando hearing say: Don’t Overhaul Medicaid
(OrlandoSentinel) — About 200 advocates for the elderly and the poor jammed a public hearing in Orlando on Thursday to voice concerns about Florida’s proposed Medicaid overhaul — echoing the same reaction seen at public hearings throughout the state. Although representatives from several HMOs offered examples of how they have coordinated care for patients and saved lives, most of the people at the hearing criticized the state’s plans to move most Medicaid recipients into managed-care plans a plan which only work if you’re well. It does not work if you have complex health problems, said Amy O’Rourke of the Cameron Group, a professional geriatric care management company based in Orlando. She has 13,000 elders and has yet to see one managed-care program work for elders with complex care.
Thursday’s hearing was the 10th in a series of 11 public hearings organized by the Agency for Health Care Administration during the past week. The state agency is gathering comments from Medicaid consumers, families, and others about the state’s Medicaid proposal before submitting the plan to the federal government.
Weiner resigns after Sexting Scandal
Washington (CNN) — Democratic Rep. Anthony Weiner heeded calls from across the political spectrum by resigning from office Thursday, saying that ‘sexting’ scandal he first lied about and then admitted caused such a distraction that it was impossible for him to continue his work in Congress. He apologized for the personal mistakes made. Weiner was considered a front-runner in the 2013 New York mayor’s race.
CIA, Senate hackers gleefully Promise More
(CNN) — Lulz Security, or LulzSec, is a group claiming responsibility for recent high-profile hacks and attacks on the websites of the CIA, PBS, and the U.S. Senate. The name is derived from “LOL” since members say it’s all for a laugh. Their most recent strike, and arguable the most ambitious, was distributed denial-of-service attack Wednesday that shut down the CIA’s website for a couple of hours. After the U.S. Senate breach, LulzSec posted what it called a “just-for-kicks” release of some internal data. “We don’t like the US government very much,” it wrote. “Their boats are weak, their lulz are low, and their sites aren’t very secure. In an attempt to help them fix their issues, we’ve decided to donate additional lulz in the form of owning them some more!”
NOTE: LulzSec on Thursday posted what it said were 62,000 e-mails and their passwords, gleaned from unknown sources (Gizmodo has posted a tool to help discover if your account is one of them. To verify if you're account has been compromised go to http://gizmodo.com/5812545/find-out-if-your-passwords-were-leaked-by-lulzsec-right-here or http://thenextweb.com/industry/2011/06/16/lulzsec-has-released-over-150000-names-emails-and-home-addresses-check-if-youre-one-of-them-here/.)
Papers: Strauss-Kahn claimed to have Diplomatic Immunity
New York (CNN) — Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the former chief of the International Monetary Fund, at first claimed to have diplomatic immunity when he was taken into custody but later said he was invoking it, according to a new prosecution document. Strauss-Kahn, who was considered a front-runner in France’s presidential race before his arrest, faces charges including criminal sexual acts and sexual abuse.
His attorney, Ben Brafman, said “We intend to defend this case and defend it vigorously, but we are going to do so in the courtroom. Brafman further stated renewing statements that evidence in the case will reveal his client is innocent. Illuzzi-Orbon was troubled why the defense chose to inject into the public record your claim that you possess information that might negatively impact the case and gravely undermine the credibility of the victim and if the defense does possess such information it should be forwarded to prosecutors.
White House defends to Congress the U.S. military mission in Libya
Washington (CNN) — The White House defended to Congress on Wednesday the legality, the costs and accomplishments of the U.S. military mission in Libya. Report says President Obama does not risk violating the War Powers Act. Boehner spokesman Brendan Buck says the president’s ‘creative arguments’ raised a number of questions that must be further explored. Regardless, the commander-in-chief has a responsibility to articulate how U.S. military action is vital to our national security and consistent with American policy goals.
New York Assembly approves Same-Sex Marriage
New York (CNN) — New York’s state Assembly Wednesday night approved a same-sex marriage bill, sending it to the Senate, where it faces a closer vote. The Marriage Equality Act passed the Assembly 80-63. If it passes the Senate, this bill would make New York the sixth state to legalize same-sex marriage.
Arab Unrest: Middle East and North Africa, country by country
(CNN) — Countries in the Middle East and North Africa have been swept up in protests against longtime rulers since the January revolt that ousted Tunisian strongman Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. In many cases, these demonstrations and movements have been met with brute force and escalated into seemingly unending violence. In Syria, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan plans to huddle with a special envoy on Wednesday in an effort to help stem the growing tide of refugees (now stands at 8,421) racing into Turkey from conflict-wracked Syria.
John Edwards indicted on Conspiracy, Campaign Law Violations
(CNN) — Former senator and 2008 presidential candidate John Edwards said there was no question “I’ve done wrong” but insisted he had not broken the law and never, ever thought he was breaking the law.” Edwards was indicted Friday on six counts, including conspiracy, issuing false statements, and violating campaign contribution laws. If convicted on all counts the former NC senator would face up to 30 years in prison and a maximum fine of $1.5 million.
Cigars...
Fire Up with Jose’s top suggestions!
June 18, 2011
Gran Habano Connecticut #1 Gran Robusto
Gurkha G5 Avenger Torpedo
Illusione Epernay La Ferm
La Gloria Serie N
Macanudo Vintage 1997 Maduro Toro
Padilla Miami Robusto
Tabacos Baez Monarcas
Perdomo Champagne Noir
Sponsored by:
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Casselberry’s best kept secret, located at 860 E HWY 436
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Today’s Highlights...
Return Visit with Jason Henry and A Guest Appearance by Ramon A. Ojeda
by Haydee Ayala
June 18, 2011
Orlando, FL — Though many listeners can describe YSL host Jose Miranda as charming, entertaining, fair and, at times challenging, there’s no denying he can certainly inspire some fluctuation among a few listeners especially after poking and prodding a little fun at the Republican hierarchy, specifically the Tea Party.
Miranda, known for his attention-grabbing quick witted amusing and engaging antics, will stir the pot just enough to get a rise out of listeners. As illustrated by the first caller who rails in a direct assault on Miranda and his comment on Republicans; then goes on to, proselytize Ayala on women’s rights, particularly abortion. This caller is known for her spiritedness. Still, in this case there was a great deal of self-importance when it came to this particular issue.
Because of her comment on women not having any rights whatsoever when it comes to their bodies, the need for YSL to re-address the Planned Parenthood issue, became apparent. Planned Parenthood covers a multitude of services and abortions are less than 3% of this agency's administration. If anything, abortions have fallen since the 70s!
Nonetheless, she maintained her views against its legalization and has been fighting the legitimacy of it ever since the 60s. It was clear to see her passion for ‘pro-life’ and the ‘personhood’ bill. However, Ayala remained firm leaving her personal convictions out of the dialogue indicating that women rights should not be suppress no matter the circumstance because as Americans we all have choices; and, no one not even the government should dictate differently.
Granted there were moments of unintentional flatulence but YSL is about dialogue. Views are welcomed providing the conversations remain respectful. Also, we would like to remind our listeners that YSL is not responsible for the information being aired on other shows. Its contents are the sole responsibility of its host. Furthermore, the station does make announcements prior to the airing of each show.
As we know time marches on so Miranda proceeds to make known this week’s guests. The return of Jason Henry of the West Orlando News who last week was limited in air time and invited back to resume discussions on the barbershop incident. And, Ramon Ojeda President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando.
Last week Henry touched on a series of raid-style inspections by the Orange County Sheriff’s office, including narcotics agents together with a state regulating agency who came without warrants in the Pine Hills area targeting predominantly black- and Hispanic-owned barbershops. As a result of the sweep, some were charged with “barbering without a license,” a misdemeanor and only three were actually jailed for personal drug possession of marijuana and cocaine.
Sheriff Jerry Demings found after ordering an internal review that the raids were “not perfect” and in a final report cleared all deputies involved of any policy violations. However, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation halted all activities with local law enforcement and fired some of its inspectors.
According to Henry the barbershop for many African-Americans is an institution, the cornerstone of the neighborhood. It is a place to get haircuts, to vent and to talk politics, community news or receive advice. It’s also a place where one can find a mechanic, watch the game, or just to go and chill. Henry was not undermining anyone in law enforcement just Mr. Demings’ refusal to apologize which in his eyes was a form of narcissism. Jason Henry is a staff reporter for the West Orlando News and can be reached by going directly to the website.
Next, Jose introduced Ramon Ojeda of The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando. Ojeda spoke of the chamber’s functions and their purpose. They provide leadership and support the economic development of the Hispanic business community of Metro Orlando. In addition, they partner with NEC, the National Entrepreneur Center located in downtown Orlando.
Together they help new businesses grow and succeed through networking and with NEC training, which is offered regularly. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando is located in the Fashion Square Mall on E Colonial Drive in Orlando. Their phone number is 407-428-5870 or drop them an email at info@HispanicChamber.net. And, if you wish to become a member, or see what events are going on for the month, visit their website (www.hispanicchamber.net).
What a way to start off a weekend! For more on this week’s highlights go to YSL’s archived shows. Until then, see you next week!
Fashion...
Fashion Trends for Men
June 18, 2011
Fashion trends come and go. But for men, that style has always remain more stable and steady which is probably why they last longer unlike those of women. The exception to this rule is when men see fresh ideas, ideas that actually inspire them as it relates to fashion.
Men are not quick to run to the mall to shop to change out their wardrobes since it is not high on their list of priorities. They would prefer to sit in front of a television to watch a sports game. Nonetheless, if there’s a spanking new idea out there that appeals to them, they will make the effort.
This summer trends not only bring the vintage inspired look for women, but for men as well. Men’s trousers have loosened up a little yet have a tapered bottom and hem with a well fitted waistline. Shorts another popular item come in all vibrant colors, from light and dark colors to prints. They are quite trendy for this season. Moreover, when one is dealing with this Florida heat, it is a must have piece.
The most popular footwear for men outside of athletic shoes is boat shoes. Think Miami Vice! These shoes are vintage inspired classic, really trendy. And for evening go with a fashionable hand-woven leather shoe. However, if you prefer a more casual look perhaps a slide leather sandal would work best. Another up-to-date shoe is the espadrille, which comes in a variety of canvas colors.
Compliment your fashion further by adding some eyewear. In style today is the wayfarer and the aviator both are #1 on the hit parade. Even the half frame wayfarer shape is a killer this season.
The military style has remained true for quite some time. Not only is it popular with men but also with women. Perhaps this look is viewed by many as a cherished look inspired by our men and women who serve in the armed forces, nonetheless is still remains strong.
Of course, women do adore men in suits. Not only are they a classic look but they do exude masculinity. There are, however, different cuts. But for summer 2011, linen and light colored suits are the biggest buys. Seersucker suits are great because they are lightweight, comfortable, and have a crisp good look (usually made of a fabric that breathes naturally like cotton) then there is the classic single breasted suit which never goes out of fashion.
Style is all about good looks. Dressing to impress but mainly it’s about attitude, and one’s personality. Now that we’ve shared this information with you go out and have fun with it.
Sports Box...
June 18, 2011
Baseball
Top Two Teams in Each Division — Standings: W/L
(MLB.MLB.com) As of Friday, 6.17.11
AMERICAN LEAGUE
East:
Boston (42-27)
NY Yankees (39-29)
Central:
Cleveland (37-31)
Detroit (38-32)
West:
Texas (37-34)
Seattle (35-34)
NATIONAL LEAGUE
East:
Philadelphia (44-26)
Atlanta (39-32)
Central:
Milwaukee (39-32)
St. Louis (38-33)
West:
San Francisco (39-30)
Arizona (38-32)
Basketball
Rubio Coming to Minnesota
(ESPN/NBA) — The last hurdles for Spanish point guard Ricky Rubio to join the Minnesota Timberwolves has been cleared, sources told ESPN on Thursday. Rubio wrote on Twitter on Thursday that he will hold a news conference in Barcelona on Friday to discuss his basketball future. Rubio is listed as 6-foot-4 and 190 pounds, with a 6-9 wing span and will turn 21 in October.
Football
Packers receive Super Bowl Rings
(ESPN/NFL) — Although the ring was even heavier than Charles Woodson expected, it felt just right on his hand. Woodson and his Green Bay Packers teammates received their Super Bowl rings in a private ceremony (closed to fans and the media) at Lambeau Field on Thursday night, and the veteran cornerback’s smile beamed just as brightly as the diamond-encrusted ring he was showing off to the cameras.
Wines...
Top Choices for under $25
June 18, 2011
2009 VIVI Falanghina Campania IGT
2009 The Usual Suspect Cabernet Sauvignon from Big House Wine Company
2009 Robert Oatley Cabernet Sauvignon James Oatley TIC TOK
2010 Chasing Venus Sauvignon Blanc
2009 d’Arenberg The Stump Jump
2005 Cameron Hughes Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 34 Rutherford
2006 Tamarack Cellars Firehouse Red
2009 Graves Monkey Wench
Food & Wine Events:
Jun 18-19 — Clermont | Lakeridge Winery & Vineyands (21st Annual Harvest Festival)
Jun 24 — Altamonte Springs | Cork & Olive – An Evening of Outstanding Wines!
(RSVP Online)
Jun 27 — Orlando | Waldorf Astoria Orlando – Flanagan Estate Orlando Winemakers Dinner at Bull & Bear
Special Interest...
HELPING OTHERS
The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe has recently been through 2 winter storms leaving the reservation without power or water. They are in dire need of monetary contributions of any size to assist with the incurring expenses. Your donations and contributions will help in keeping their Tribal members alive, fed and warm.
For more information go to the link below: https://secure.piryx.com/donate/0oFFsK8c/Cheyenn-River-Sioux-Tribe/
Also, keep in mind that it’s been a tough year for many Americans and the world at large and your local American Red Cross was not immune. Give generously to this non-government humanitarian emergency assistance and disaster relief program so that they can continue to perform their acts of kindness; for more information go to www.redcross.org.
Recipe...
Grilled Tuna and Watercress with Scallion-Ginger Relish
June 18, 2011
Here’s a salad that is as beautiful as it is delicious. The spicy orange-ginger dressing is so good, you will want to double (or triple) it to serve on your salad throughout the week.
Serving: 2 • Time: 45 MIN
Ingredients:
2 tablespoon(s) orange juice
1 tablespoon(s) reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon(s) toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon(s) minced fresh ginger
½ teaspoon(s) hot sauce
¼ teaspoon(s) freshly ground pepper, divided
½ cup(s) thinly sliced scallions
½ cup(s) drained, canned water chestnuts, diced (see Tips for Two)
1 tablespoon(s) sesame seeds, toasted (see Tip)
1 8-ounce tuna steak, about 1-inch thick
½ teaspoon(s) canola oil
1/8 teaspoon(s) salt
4 cup(s) watercress, washed and trimmed (about 1 bunch)
Directions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Combined orange juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, hot sauce and 1/8 teaspoon pepper in a large bowl. Transfer half the dressing to a small bowl; add scallions, water chestnuts and sesame seeds, and toss.
3. Rub tuna with canola oil and sprinkle with salt and the remaining 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Grill until the fish is opaque, 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Add watercress to the large bowl and toss to coat with the remaining dressing. Cut the tuna into 2 portions. Divide the watercress between 2 plates and top with the tuna and scallion-ginger relish.
Tips for Two: Store leftover water chestnuts in the refrigerator, covered with water, they keep for up to 1 month with daily water changes. Add to a stir-fry, toss in a green salad; jazz up chicken or tuna salad: Asian Brown Rice. Tip: To toast sesame seeds, heat a small dry skillet over low heat. Add sesame seeds and stir constantly until golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and let cool.
Source: eatingwell.com.
Health...
Sharpen Your Vision with this Taco Meal
June 18, 2011
(Real Age) Cataract surgery — No one wants it to appear in their crystal-ball reading. So here’s what you need to do to keep cataracts from clouding your future.
Switch the meat filling in that taco to fish and serve it with salsa and a side of vinegar coleslaw. Research shows that limiting your intake of meat to no more than 12 ounces a week — and grabbing some more fish, vegetables, and fruit in the process — may help reduce the risk of cataracts.
Save your Sight
In a study, researchers examined the link between dietary habits and cataract risk in older adults. The research showed that adults age 65 and over who ate the most meat (at least 24 ounces a week — think four large steaks) had the highest rate of cataracts, an eye condition in which opaque proteins builds up on the lens and clouds the vision. But those who limited their meat intake to half that — the equivalent of four small (3 ounce) servings a week — slashed their risk of cataracts by 15 percent; and, people who not only limited meat but replaced it with fish, fruits, and veggies had the lowest cataract risk of all.
Peeper Protection
There were some other dietary revelations in the study. For example, eating too much overall, getting too much cholesterol, or eating too much protein all seemed to be bad for cataract risk. On the other hand, vitamin A and vitamin B12 appeared to be helpful when it came to preventing cataracts. It’s not clear from the research whether diet directly affected cataract risk or whether people with good diets tended to have other healthy habits that helped protect eyes from the lends-clouding condition. Regardless, we do know that a diet low in meat and high in fruits and vegetables is a boon to health for many other reasons — from weight control to heart health. So think of creative ways to put less meat and more plants into your meals.
Other good ways to reduce cataract risk? Limit alcohol; cut down your exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation; keep your blood sugar under control, because diabetes raises cataract risk; and don’t smoke. Also, don’t forget to see the eye doctor.
Source: realage.com
Politics...
Food Programs Escape Budget Cuts
June 18, 2011
Already on the defensive, scores of House Republicans joined with Democrats on Wednesday to beat back repeated conservative attempts to make still deeper cuts from nutrition programs and food aid overseas.
The resulting margins approached 3-1, and the underlying $17.25 billion agriculture bill has clearly touched a deeper nerve than its Republican managers had expected.
The combined cuts from Food for Peace and the WIC nutrition program for women, infants and children already total over $1.14 billion and triggered an emotional outburst from members of the House Black Caucus when the measure first hit the House floor Tuesday. This was followed Wednesday by a sharp, personal exchange between Rep. Paul Broun (R-Ga.) and the ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, Norm Dicks (D-Wash.).
Broun, a trained physician, had proposed to cut another 10 percent from WIC and then followed with an amendment to cut $940 million from Food for Peace — virtually wiping out the program. The typically affable Dicks was suddenly on his feet, accusing the Republican of endangering the health of children overseas and violating his Hippocratic Oath “to do no harm.”
“I resent the fact that you accuse me of wanting to do harm,” Broun responded, clearly upset. The back-and-forth continued briefly but Dicks promised to alter his words in the Record so to appear less personal.
The emotions weren’t lost on the GOP itself.
Rep. Jack Kingston (R-Ga.), the bill’s manager, appears more determined to protect at least the reduced funds allocated for nutrition and food aid in his bill. And to show his commitment, Kingston helped engineer an amendment Wednesday evening that would impose a modest across-the-board cut elsewhere in the bill so as to shield the WIC funding level.
In earlier floor votes, Republicans split down the middle on an unsuccessful amendment by Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC) to cut $82.5 million more from WIC. Broun was trounced, 360-64, on his 10 percent WIC cut, which garnered only 63 GOP allies. And the deeper cut from Food for Peace lost by a 3-1 margin with Republicans split 139-98 against Broun’s position.
After the partisan stalemate seen in the last Congress, Dicks has prided himself on his willingness to work with Republicans on Appropriations to move the spending bills forward this summer. But the pent-up emotions from the agriculture floor fight have seemed to spill into the committee proceedings as well.
This was seen Wednesday as the full committee approved a $30.6 billion energy and water bill after adding another $1 billion in emergency funding as a first down payment toward the Corps of Engineers costs in dealing with the devastating flooding along the Missouri River and Mississippi River this year.
Democrats supported the disaster funding but strongly objected when Republicans insisted on offsetting the costs by rescinding an estimated $1.5 billion from high-speed rail funds first appropriated in the 2009 Recovery Act.
The money, which had been designated for a Tampa-Orlando rail project, is still available because it was returned this spring by Florida’s new governor, Rick Scott. But the Transportation Department confirmed to POLITICO that it was already planning to redesignate a big part of the funds for Amtrak’s Northeast corridor, including improvements in the track between Trenton and New Brunswick, N.J.
Democrats seized on this, hoping to put pressure on New Jersey Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen, the Republican manager of the energy and water bill. To bursts of applause from fellow Democrats, Rep. Peter Visclosky (D-Ind.), Frelinghuysen’s co-manager, began to recite aloud from a list of Corps projects built with emergency funds in Afghanistan and Iraq — and not offset by the GOP.
“If we’re wise enough to spend that money for a children’s hospital in Basra, Iraq,” Visclosky said, “shouldn’t we— on an emergency basis—be taking care of people who live in places like Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on their flood control problems?”
In Frelinghuysen’s defense, Rep. Tom Latham (R-Iowa) countered that it was “pie in the sky” to talk of the unspent rail funds ending up in New Jersey; but, there is also a “Borrow-from-Peter-to-Pay-Paul” aspect to the Republicans own financing scheme for the disaster aid.
Just weeks ago, to pay for disaster aid in the Homeland Security bill, the Appropriations leadership took money under Frelinghuysen’s jurisdiction at Energy Department. Now to pay for the Corps, the committee has reached ahead to take the rail funds from under Latham’s jurisdiction over the Transportation Department.
Indeed, Latham faces some of the biggest budget cuts of all, but before he gets to the floor, both parties are hoping that a compromise can be reached between Republican leaders and the White House that will allow more domestic funding.
Those talks, led by Vice President Joe Biden, continued Wednesday and are to resume Thursday afternoon—the third such meeting this week.
Biden left the Capitol without talking with reporters, but much of Wednesday’s discussion focused on futuristic budget process reforms—not the gritty details that have so bedeviled the House this week.
“We were talking about deficit reduction caps, debt caps, and had a useful discussion about different perspectives and we’re gonna continue to work on it,” said Maryland Rep. Chris Van Hollen, the ranking Democrat on the House Budget Committee. “There was broad support for the idea that we would put in place a mechanism that assures deficit reduction.”
“How do we go from here to produce a result that can satisfy the need for us to demonstrate that we are changing the system,” said House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.).
Source: Politico, David Rogers, Scott Wong contributed to this article.
