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HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT NEXUS

As the conflict in eastern Ukraine continues, humanitarian and development actors need to work closely together to support IDPs and the conflict-affected population in order to promote durable solutions, maximize resources, build upon a wide range of expertise, and ensure that their programmes are complementary and sustainable.

This note aims to encourage humanitarian and development actors to work closely together to ensure a rights based approach to assistance in their programs. This New Way of Working for humanitarian and development actors was highlighted in Secretary-General Bans Agenda for Humanity, prepared for the World Humanitarian Summit and reflected in a joint Commitment to Action. It is included in the United Nations Development Assistance Framework Guidance that takes into account the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which incorporates more integrated and interconnected programming by bringing closer development, humanitarian, human rights and peacebuilding agendas.

ENSURING A RIGHTS BASED APPROACH TO DEVELOPMENT

Protection has been at the centre of the humanitarian response in Ukraine and it is important that a rights based approach is integrated into the early recovery and development response as well. Many protection issues inform development response and are integral to durable solutions. The need for sustainable livelihoods, employment opportunities, affordable housing and security of tenure, non-discriminatory access to social services, public transport and access to education and health care, are all areas where the development community can play an active role. The need to rebuild and repair essential infrastructure including hospitals, schools, water and energy supply systems, which have been targeted by shelling, is another area where there is a need for development and humanitarian actors to work closely together.

Peacebuilding and reconciliation is also an area where humanitarian and development actors need to work closely together in order to strengthen social cohesion. A growing number of internally displaced people report an increase in discrimination as IDPs and host communities compete for resources within a fragile economy.

A sharp increase in poverty levelsin eastern Ukraine (20% to 74% in Luhansk and from 22% to 65% in Donetsk) highlights how the conflict, coupled with a deteriorating economic situation and high levels of unemployment, has further heightened the vulnerability of conflict-affected and displaced people. Unemployment and poverty are the issues most frequently cited by people in Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts as contributing to feelings of insecurity above shelling and mines.

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Ukraine: Protection for Development Actors - August 2017 [EN/UK/RU] - ReliefWeb

SAN FRANCISCO The Giants trudged onto the field for the team photo Thursday afternoon. Some of their personnel found a way to smile. Manager Bruce Bochy was among them.

But upon meeting with reporters, Bochys smile vanished. He heaved an audible sigh.

It stinks, letting guys go, Bochy said.

In addition to Conor Gillaspie, the hero of last Octobers NL Wild Card Game, Bochy had to deliver bad news to two other veterans. He said right-hander Matt Cain would be out of the rotation and would serve as a long reliever for the remainder of the season. And he acknowledged that his chat with Denard Span on Monday involved telling the career center fielder to brace for a move to left field.

The move with Span might not take place in earnest until spring training, Bochy said. The move with Cain is more immediate. Right-hander Chris Stratton will start in place of Cain on Saturday against the Arizona Diamondbacks and the plan calls for him to remain in the rotation for the rest of the season.

This is the tough thing about going through a year like this, Bochy said of managing a 41-68 club. It comes with the territory, (making) changes.

Bochy delivered some of the bad news after Wednesday nights loss to the As, telling Gillaspie that he would be designated for assignment. Gillaspie, 30, batted .163 in 44 games while battling back stiffness. His defense at third base had slipped as well. He couldnt throw out 38-year-old Chase Utley on a roller at Dodger Stadium on Saturday, which started a ninth-inning rally that ultimately cost the Giants a win.

But Gillaspie still has something to offer a contending club, and Bochy hoped he would catch on somewhere.

Gillaspie hit a pair of late-inning home runs in recent days, including one with two outs in the ninth on July 21 that forced extra innings against the Padres. It was the kind of late-inning magic he displayed so often in late September and in the postseason last year.

His unforgettable home run off the Mets Jeurys Familia broke a scoreless tie and backed Madison Bumgarners shutout to get the Giants through the Wild Card knockout game. Then he hit a triple off the Cubs Aroldis Chapman that won Game 3 of the NL Division Series. It was the first triple a left-handed hitter had ever hit off Chapman, and it came on a 100.9 mph fastball the swiftest pitch that Gillaspie had seen in his major league career.

Special stuff, in other words. And it happened in his second tour with the Giants, coming back with a much different mindset after failing to establish himself the first time around just as Travis Ishikawa did when he hit the home run that clinched the pennant in 2014.

But baseball games are won because of production, not memories. The reminder was just as brusque for Gillaspie as it was for Ishikawa in 2015.

Its always difficult, Bochy said. As you know, he did a lot for us last year, especially down the stretch. A club can pick him up. If not, I hope hes in Sacramento.

Ryder Jones is up from Sacramento, hitting second in Thursdays lineup against the As and Bochy expects to play him almost every day. The way is clear for Jones at third base after the club let Gillaspie go and optioned Jae-gyun Hwang back to the River Cats. But Bochy said Jones would get occasional starts in the outfield, too.

Jones, 23, hit .375 with three home runs in 11 games since the Giants activated him from the disabled list and returned him to Sacramento.

Hes swinging the bat better, Bochy said. Hes driving the ball. With where were at, this is a perfect time for him.

They have an opportunity in part because Christian Arroyo is out for likely the remainder of the season because of a fractured finger. Likewise, Stratton is getting a shot because top pitching prospect Tyler Beede is sidelined two months by a strained groin.

Hes a four-pitch guy, hes got some velo, low 90s, and when his command is sharp, he works up and down (the zone) pretty well, Bochy said of Stratton, who is 0-2 with a 7.71 ERA. Hes got a good slider and changeup. Hes got the equipment to be a 4 or 5 starter.

The Giants didnt promote left-hander Andrew Suarez because he has thrown 121 innings this season and he doesnt have to be added to the 40-man roster until after next season. Its not worth having him take up a space now when hell likely be shut down after throwing another 30-40 innings.

Perhaps the most significant future development involves Span, who couldnt make a play in the As two-run first inning Wednesday night and statistically ranks as the least effective center fielder in baseball.

Span is signed for one more season (with $13 million owed to him, including the buyout on an option for 2019), and if he is still here, Bochy left no doubt that his future would be in left field.

We had a discussion, Bochy said. Its hard to do during the season. More than likely, it happens next year. I cant tell you what will happen in the offseason. But we have talked about it.

Bochy said he is sensitive to the fact that the move from center field to an outfield corner is more difficult than one might presume, and he didnt want to throw Span into the fire. He mentioned that Angel Pagan needed an entire spring before he began to feel comfortable in left.

Bochy knows there is a pride factor as well. He has managed enough center fielders to know they often have a hard time seeing themselves as anything but a center fielder.

Jarrett Parker is back from his fractured collarbone, and played quite a bit of center field during his two rehab stints for Sacramento. But hes in left field Thursday as he makes his first start since the April 15 game in which he crashed into the wall while making a catch.

As for Hwang, he was 2 for 13 with a pair of singles in four starts upon being recalled and Bochy acknowledged the timing isnt there at the plate. Its been clear all along that the Giants werent counting on Hwang being a part of their long-term future.

Bochy said he anticipated that Hwang would return as a September call-up. But that doesnt mean Jones is free and clear at third base. The Giants have a certain Kung Fu Panda getting at-bats at Sacramento Pablo Sandoval set up his family in the Bay Area on his day off Wednesday and Bochy has said when the right time comes, itll happen.

One day after Daniel Gossett no-hit the Giants into the fifth inning in a 6-1 victory, the As sent him back to Triple-A. Its Kendall Graveman vs. Ty Blach as the Giants try to split this four-game home-and-home series with their interleague rivals.

Lineups:

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Giants notes: Bruce Bochy pulls Matt Cain from rotation, tells Denard Span his future is in LF - The Mercury News

Former President Obama and those close to him are reportedly encouraging former Massachusetts governor Deval Patrick to run for president in 2020.

According to a recent Politico report, Obama, a close friend of Patrick, "counts him among the very small group of people whom he thinks has actual political talenthas privately encouraged him to think about it, among others."

Inner circle supporters are also said to include campaign strategist David Axelrod, adviser Valerie Jarrett, and David Simas, who has worked under both Obama and Patrick.

86 PHOTOS

Deval Patrick through the years

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Massachusetts Democratic gubernatorial candidate Deval Patrick (R) and U.S. Senator Barack Obama (D-Ill.) shake hands at the start of a news conference in Boston, Massachusetts, October 21, 2006. REUTERS/Jessica Rinaldi (UNITED STATES)

Massachusetts Democratic gubernatorial candidate Deval Patrick (R) watches as U.S. Senator Barack Obama (D-Ill.) fields questions from reporters at a news conference in Boston, Massachusetts, October 21, 2006. REUTERS/Jessica Rinaldi (UNITED STATES)

Massachusetts Democratic gubernatorial candidate Deval Patrick (L) fields a question as U.S. Senator Barack Obama (D-Ill.) looks on during a news conference in Boston, Massachusetts, October 21, 2006. REUTERS/Jessica Rinaldi (UNITED STATES)

Democrat Deval Patrick (L) raises his arm with his Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray after winning the election to become the next Governor of the State of Massachusetts at a rally in Boston, Massachusetts November 7, 2006. REUTERS/Adam Hunger (UNITED STATES)

Democrat Deval Patrick shakes hands with supporters after winning the election to become the next Governor of the State of Massachusetts at a rally in Boston, Massachusetts November 7, 2006. REUTERS/Adam Hunger (UNITED STATES)

Democrat Deval Patrick pumps his fist while giving a speech after winning the election to become the next Governor of the State of Massachusetts at a rally in Boston, Massachusetts November 7, 2006. REUTERS/Adam Hunger (UNITED STATES)

Democrat Deval Patrick raises his arms and looks up as confetti falls after winning the election to become the next Governor of the State of Massachusetts at a rally in Boston, Massachusetts November 7, 2006. REUTERS/Adam Hunger (UNITED STATES)

PATRICK DEVAL, UNDERSECRETARY OF STATE FOR HUMAN RIGHTS (Photo by Jeffrey Markowitz/Sygma via Getty Images)

BOSTON - DECEMBER 14: Democratic candidate for governor Deval Patrick speaks to the press at the State House about Gov. Romney's announcement. (Photo by Evan Richman/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON, MA - NOVEMBER 3: Sen. Barack Obama (L) and candidate for Mass. Gov. Deval Patrick (R) at a rally at the Reggie Lewis Center, Friday, November 3, 2006. (Photo by Evan Richman/The Boston Globe via Getty images)

LOWELL, MA - NOVEMBER 5: Massachusetts Democratic gubernatorial candidate Deval Patrick speaks at a rally at Lowell High School November 5, 2006 in Lowell, Massachusetts. Patrick reportedly holds a double digit lead against rival Lt. Governor Kerry Healey, and if elected would be the first African-American governor of Massachusetts and only the sesond in the history of the United States. (Photo by Darren McCollester/Getty Images)

LOWELL, MA - NOVEMBER 5: Massachusetts Democratic gubernatorial candidate Deval Patrick speaks at a rally at Lowell High School November 5, 2006 in Lowell, Massachusetts. Patrick reportedly holds a double digit lead against rival Lt. Governor Kerry Healey, and if elected would be the first African-American governor of Massachusetts and only the sesond in the history of the United States. (Photo by Darren McCollester/Getty Images)

BOSTON - JUNE 1: Mass. Gubernatorial Candidate Deval Patrick makes his entrance during a rally at the Hynes Convention Center, Thursday, June 1, 2006. (Photo by Evan Richman/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - OCTOBER 16: Former president Bill Clinton, left, was on stage with democratic candidate for Governor of Massachusetts Deval Patrick, right. (Photo by Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - JUNE 1: From left to right: U.S. Sen. Barack Obama at a press availability for Mass. Gubernatorial Candidate Deval Patrick at the Hynes Convention Center, Thursday, June 1, 2006. (Photo by Evan Richman/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - SEPTEMBER 22: Gubernatorial candidate Deval Patrick, center, and Sen. John Kerry, during a science round table discussion at UMass Boston, Friday, Sept. 22, 2006. (Photo by Evan Richman/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - SEPTEMBER 25: Deval Patrick, center , had the support of the Democratic party in full force at the Park Plaza Hotel. From left to right: running mate Tim Murray, Mayor of Worcester, Sen. Ted Kennedy, and Sen. John Kerry, Congressman Edward Markey, Congressman Jim McGovern, spoke with him at a press conference on Monday, Sept. 25, 2006. (Photo by Suzanne Kreiter/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - SEPTEMBER 22: From left to right: gubernatorial candidate Deval Patrick and Sen. John Kerry, speaks to the press after a science round table discussion at UMass Boston, Friday, Sept. 22, 2006. (Photo by Evan Richman/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - OCTOBER 16: Former president Bill Clinton, left, was on stage with democratic candidate for Governor of Massachusetts Deval Patrick, right. (Photo by Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - OCTOBER 16: Former president Bill Clinton was on stage with democratic candidate for governor of Massachusetts Deval Patrick, and they shared a big hug as they came on stage. (Photo by Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

LOWELL, MA - NOVEMBER 5: Massachusetts Democratic gubernatorial candidate Deval Patrick shakes hands with supporters following a rally at Lowell High School November 5, 2006 in Lowell, Massachusetts. Patrick holds reportedly a double digit lead against rival Lt. Governor Kerry Healey, and if elected would be the first African-American governor of Massachusetts and only the sesond in the history of the United States. (Photo by Darren McCollester/Getty Images)

BOSTON - OCTOBER 23: Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick (MA-D) (L) looks on as Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) speaks to an enthusiastic crowd of thousands at Boston Common October 23, 2007 in Boston, Massachusetts. Patrick, the only African-American governor in the nation, announced his support for Obama in an email to supporters earlier this week. (Photo by Robert Spencer/Getty Images)

BOSTON - FEBRUARY 4: Democratic Presidential candidate Barack Obama appeared at the Seaport World Trade Center Monday evening. He was cheered on by Caroline Kennedy, Gov. Deval Patrick, and Sen. John Kerry. (Photo by Justine Hunt/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

WALTHAM, MA - MARCH 28: Gov. Deval Patrick attends the inauguration of Gloria Cordes Larson, the seventh president of Bentley College, on Friday, March 28, 2008. He gave greetings, representing the public service community. (Photo by Pat Greenhouse/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - APRIL 15: Gov. Deval Patrick makes a good catch. Fish Stock, State Wildlife Officials and Boston school children ushered in the spring fishing season releasing 700 state hatchery-raised trout and some salmon into the shallows of Jamaica Pond. (Photo by David L Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

MASHPEE, MA - AUGUST 25: Lt. Gov. Timothy P. Murray, Gov. Deval Patrick, and U.S. Sen. John Kerry attend funeral services for Army Private First Class Paul Conlon at Christ the King Parish in Mashpee on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008. Conlon was killed in Afghanistan. (Photo by Wendy Maeda/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - MAY 10: Governor Deval Patrick helps Wendy Perez of the South End fill out a voter registration application outside Back Bay Station in Boston, Saturday, May 10, 2008. Today marks the kick-off of 'Vote for Change' registration drive by Obama supporters across the nation. (Photo by Wendy Maeda/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - SEPTEMBER 23: Gov. Deval Patrick speaks during the grand re-opening of the Fields Corner MBTA Station. (Photo by David Kamerman/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

WASHINGTON - JANUARY 19: Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick applauds as President-elect Barack Obama arrives to introduce his former political rival Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) at a bipartisan dinner in the National Building Museum on January 19, 2009 in Washington, DC. Inaugural events continue throughout the city before President-elect Barack Obama is to be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States on January 20, 2009. (Photo by Joshua Roberts-Pool/Getty Images)

NORTON, MA - MAY 16: During the 174th Commencement of Wheaton College, Gov. Deval Patrick addresses the graduates after he was awarded a Doctor of Laws honorary degree by college president Ronald Crutcher. Patrick is also scheduled to deliver the commencement addresses at Bridgwater State College Saturday afternoon and Tufts University Sunday morning. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

CAMBRIDGE, MA - JUNE 4: At MIT's graduation, MIT president Susan Hockfield, with Mass. Gov. Deval Patrick, who gave the address, before the opening ceremony. (Photo by David L Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

UNITED STATES - AUGUST 31: Deval Patrick, governor of Massachusetts, speaks during a news conference at the statehouse in Boston, Massachusetts, U.S., on Monday, Aug. 31, 2009. Patrick said he will work with state lawmakers to allow appointment of a temporary replacement for the late Senator Edward Kennedy before a Jan. 19 special election to choose someone to serve out his term. (Photo by Michael Springer/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 24: Massachusetts Democratic Governor Deval Patrick (C) speaks as U.S. Senator John Kerry (D-MA) (L) and Interim Senator Paul G. Kirk Jr. (D-MA) look on at a press conference on September 24, 2009 at the Statehouse in Boston, Massachusetts. Kirk, the former Democratic National Committee (DNC) chairman, will take over Sen. Edward M. Kennedy's seat that was left vacated from his passing on August 25. (Photo by Darren McCollester/Getty Images)

BOSTON - DECEMBER 9: Gov. Deval Patrick raises the arm of the Democratic nominee for the open U.S. Senate seat Martha Coakley, during a Democratic unity event at the Omni Parker House. Steve Pagliuca and Alan Khazei are in the background. (Photo by Bill Greene/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

US President Barack Obama (C) arrives to speak at a fundraising rally for Governor Deval Patrick (R) at the Westin Copley Place in Boston, Massachusetts, on October 23, 2009. on left is Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray. AFP PHOTO/Jewel SAMAD (Photo credit should read JEWEL SAMAD/AFP/Getty Images)

US President Barack Obama (C) arrives to speak at a fundraising rally for Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick (R) at the Westin Copley Place in Boston, Massachusetts, on October 23, 2009. AFP PHOTO/Jewel SAMAD (Photo credit should read JEWEL SAMAD/AFP/Getty Images)

MEET THE PRESS -- Airdate 12/27/09 --Pictured: Gov. Deval Patrick (D-MA) left, and Fmr. Rep. Newt Gingrich (R-GA) right, appear on 'Meet the Press' in a pre taped interview in Washington, D.C., Wednesday December 23, 2009. (Photo by William B. Plowman/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images)

BOSTON - APRIL 10: Gov. Deval Patrick, left, and running mate Tim Murray applaud their supporters from the stage at the gym at English High School, where Patrick made a Boston appearance to start of his 2010 campaign for reelection. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

WASHINGTON - FEBRUARY 22: (L-R) Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, Florida Governor Charlie Crist, New York Governor David Patterson, Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley, and others walk out of the White House after meeting with President Barack Obama at the White House on February 22, 2010 in Washington, DC. The nation's governors are in town for the annual National Governors Association meeting (Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images)

BOSTON - JUNE 30: Governor Deval Patrick signed the Fiscal Year 2011 state budget. On his right is Jay Gonzalez, the governor's secretary of administration and finance. (Photo by Suzanne Kreiter/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

US President Barack Obama (R) greets Democratic Governor Deval Patrick of Massachusetts (L) after speaking at a rally for Patrick at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston, Massachusetts, October 16, 2010. Obama supported Patrick's race for another term as governor ahead of the midterm elections on November 2. AFP PHOTO / Saul LOEB (Photo credit should read SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images)

US President Barack Obama (R) greets Democratic Governor Deval Patrick of Massachusetts (L) after speaking at a rally for Patrick at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston, Massachusetts, October 16, 2010. Obama supported Patrick's race for another term as governor ahead of the midterm elections on November 2. AFP PHOTO / Saul LOEB (Photo credit should read SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images)

US President Barack Obama waves to the crowd after speaking at a rally for Democratic Governor Deval Patrick of Massachusetts (R) at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston, Massachusetts, October 16, 2010. Obama supported Patrick's race for another term as governor ahead of the midterm elections on November 2. AFP PHOTO / Saul LOEB (Photo credit should read SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images)

US President Barack Obama waves alongside Democratic Governor Deval Patrick (L) of Massachusetts after speaking at a rally for Patrick at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston, Massachusetts, October 16, 2010. Obama supported Patrick's race for another term as governor ahead of the midterm elections on November 2. AFP PHOTO / Saul LOEB (Photo credit should read SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images)

BOSTON - OCTOBER 16: During a campaign rally and visit by President Barack Obama at the Hynes Convention Center, Gov Deval Patrick (left) waves with President Obama.(Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

Democratic Governor Deval Patrick of Massachusetts and his wife, Diane, arrive for a speech by US President Barack Obama at a rally for Patrick at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston, Massachusetts, October 16, 2010. AFP PHOTO / Saul LOEB (Photo credit should read SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images)

BOSTON - OCTOBER 16: During a campaign rally and visit by President Barack Obama at the Hynes Convention Center, Governor Deval Patrick (left) listens to the president. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

FRAMINGHAM, MA - OCTOBER 24: Governor Deval Patrick joined Congressman Edward Markey outside of the town hall for a rally. (Photo by Suzanne Kreiter/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - JANUARY 6: Lt. Gov. Timothy Murray listens as Governor Deval Patrick makes his speech after being sworn-in to his second term as Governor of Massachusetts in the House of Representatives at the State House during his inauguration. (Photo by Bill Greene/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - JANUARY 19: Governor Deval Patrick (left) applauds Steve Grossman as he was introduced in the House Chamber at the start of a formal swearing-in ceremony which made him the 59th treausurer of Massachusetts. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

US President Barack Obama makes his way to the lectern after his introduction by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick during a DNC fundraiser at the Boston Center for the Arts May 18, 2011. AFP PHOTO/Mandel NGAN (Photo credit should read MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images)

BOSTON, MA - APRIL 8: The inaugural groundbreaking ceremonies where held for the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for The United States Senate in Dorchester. Left to right are University of Massachusetts President Jack Wilson, Mrs. Victoria Reggie Kennedy, Paul G. Kirk, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, and the Mayor of Boston, Thomas M. Menino. (Photo by Jonathan Wiggs/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick introduces US President Barack Obama at a DNC fundraiser at the Boston Center for the Arts May 18, 2011. AFP PHOTO/Mandel NGAN (Photo credit should read MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images)

BOSTON - MAY 18: Gov. Deval Patrick introduces US President Barack Obama to the crowd as he makes a fundraiser stop in Boston, at the Cyclorama at the Boston Center for the Arts on May 18, 2011. (Photo by Essdras M Suarez/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

Deval Patrick, governor of Massachusetts, right, and his wife Diane Patrick sit for a photograph at Tanglewood in Lenox, Massachusetts, U.S., on Friday, July 8, 2011. Tanglewood is the home of the annual summer Tanglewood Music Festival and has been the Boston Symphony Orchestra's summer home since 1937. Photographer: Amanda Gordon/Bloomberg via Getty Images

BOSTON - NOVEMBER 1: Robert L. Caret, left, was inaugurated as the 26th president of UMass, during a ceremony at the JFK Library and Museum. He shakes hands with Gov. Deval Patrick. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

MARSHFIELD - JUNE 6: State Trooper Ellen E. Engelhardt, who was hit by a drunk driver in 2003 and left in a permanent vegetative state, died this month. Her funeral was held at Saint Christine's Catholic Church. Governor Deval Patrick, greeted the late trooper's grandson Dylan Greeley, 6, after the funeral. (Photo by Suzanne Kreiter/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

MALDEN, MA - FEBRUARY 15: After reading to a kindergarten class, Governor Deval Patrick sits in on a P.A.C.E. class (Practical Academic Community Education) led by music therapist Laura Micheli. The special education class rocks to 'Shake Uh-Huh.' Patrick visits the Linden School in Malden, on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2012. He announced $281,000 in grants to 29 potential Innovation Schools. (Photo by Pat Greenhouse/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

SOMERVILLE, MA - MAY 30: After walking in together, U.S. Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren, right, and Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick speak to a crowd of supporters. U.S. Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren is endorsed by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick at her campaign offices in Somerville, Mass. on Wednesday, May 30, 2012. (Photo by Yoon S. Byun/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick speaks at the Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte, North Carolina, on September 4, 2012 on the first day of the Democratic National Convention (DNC). The DNC is expected to nominate US President Barack Obama to run for a second term as president. AFP PHOTO Stan HONDA (Photo credit should read STAN HONDA/AFP/GettyImages)

CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 04: Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick speaks during day one of the Democratic National Convention at Time Warner Cable Arena on September 4, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The DNC that will run through September 7, will nominate U.S. President Barack Obama as the Democratic presidential candidate. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

BOSTON - SEPTEMBER 10: Cutting the ribbon is Governor Deval Patrick who was helped by Azzie Young,on the right, President and Chief Executive Officer, Mattapan Community Health Center at the Mattapan Community Health Center Grand Opening. (Photo by David L Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON, MA - NOVEMBER 06: Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick attends Elizabeth Warren's Campaign Election Night event at Fairmont Copley Plaza on November 6, 2012 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Paul Marotta/WireImage)

BOSTON - JANUARY 16: Gov. Deval Patrick delivers his annual State of the Commonwealth address in the House Chambers. (Photo by Jim Davis/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

FRAMINGHAM, MA - FEBRUARY 8: Gov. Deval Patrick declares a state of emergency and driving ban at MEMA headquarters (The Bunker). (Photo by Suzanne Kreiter/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - APRIL 4: Gov. Patrick made his way from his office to the press conference. To his left was Richard A. Davey, Secretary and Chief Executive Officer Massachusetts Department of Transportation. Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick holds a press conference regarding transportation at the State House in Boston, Mass. on Thursday, April 4, 2013. (Photo by Yoon S. Byun/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - APRIL 18: President Barack Obama came to Boston to the Cathedral of the Holy Cross for an interfaith healing service for the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing. He sits in the front row with his wife, Michelle Obama, and Gov. Deval Patrick, right. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON, MA - APRIL 18: Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick speaks at an interfaith prayer service for victims of the Boston Marathon attack titled 'Healing Our City,' at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross on April 18, 2013 in Boston, Massachusetts. Authorities investigating the attack on the Boston Marathon have shifted their focus to locating the person who placed a black bag down and walked away just before the bombs went off. The twin bombings at the 116-year-old Boston race, which occurred near the marathon finish line, resulted in the deaths of three people and more than 170 others injured. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

WATERTOWN, MA - APRIL 19: Gov. Deval Patrick speaks with Mayor Thomas Menino at his side during a press conference at Watertown Mall among other officials during the ongoing manhunt for a suspect in the terrorist bombing of the 117th Boston Marathon earlier this week. Watertown is on lockdown following a chase and shootout in the area last night. (Photo by Essdras M Suarez/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON, MA - APRIL 20: Governor Deval Patrick, of Massachusetts, applauds after the singing of the National Anthem during a pre-game ceremony in honor of the bombings of Marathon Monday before a game at Fenway Park on April 20, 2013 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)

BOSTON - APRIL 26: Gov. Deval Patrick speaks at the State House while honoring state officials and cabinet members for their response to the Boston Marathon bombing. (Photo by Aram Boghosian for The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - MAY 14: British Prime Minister David Cameron, accompanied by Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, visited the Boston Marathon bombing memorial in Copley Square. (Photo by David L Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

HUDSON, MA - JUNE 14: Gov. Deval Patrick stands with US Senator Elizabeth Warren, as the service lets out. A funeral Mass was held at Saint Michael Church in Hudson, Mass., for former Governor Paul Cellucci, June 14, 2013. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - JUNE 8: In Copley Square, Gov. Deval Patrick and Angela Menino cut the ribbon for the start of the parade. The annual Boston Pride Parade took place on June 8, 2013. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

LOWELL, MA - JULY 13: Governor Deval Patrick speaks during the 2013 Massachusetts Democratic Party Platform Convention held at the Tsongas Center at UMass Lowell. (Photo by Aram Boghosian for The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - OCTOBER 30: U.S. President Barack Obama, center, looked at the press while walking with Governor Deval Patrick, left, and Bill Russell, right, after viewing a statue in honor of Bill Russell. President Obama stopped for a private viewing of a statue for basketball hall of fame player Bill Russell at City Hall Plaza with Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick before heading to Faneuil Hall to bolster support for his national health care law in Boston, Mass. on Wednesday, October 30, 2013. (Photo by Yoon S. Byun/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON, MA - NOVEMBER 01: (L-R) Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, Boston Mayor Thomas Menino and Bill Russell attend the unveiling of the statue in honor of Boston Celtics legend Bill Russell by artist Ann Hirsch at Boston City Hall Plaza on November 1, 2013 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Paul Marotta/Getty Images)

BOSTON - NOVEMBER 4: Gov. Deval Patrick is the first of five to light the Diwali diya at the State House, on Monday, Nov. 4, 2013. The ceremony is held by the South Asian Arts Council. Standing from left are State Treasurer Steve Grossman and MassMutual executive vice president Mike Fanning. (Photo by Pat Greenhouse/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

Massachusetts Governor, Deval Patrick (L), of the US shakes hands with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe prior to their talks at Abe's office in Tokyo on December 11, 2013. Patrick is visiting with his economy mission members as part of his Asian tour. AFP PHOTO / POOL / Yoshikazu TSUNO (Photo credit should read YOSHIKAZU TSUNO/AFP/Getty Images)

BOSTON - JANUARY 6: Left to right, Cardinal Sean P. O'Malley, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Gov. Deval Patrick, Michael Joseph Donovan, Suffolk County Clerk of the Civil Court, and Roderick L. Irelend, Massachusetts Supreme Court Justice applaud at the inauguration ceremony for Mayor-elect Marty Walsh at Boston College's Conte Forum on January 6, 2014. (Photo by David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

US President Barack Obama looks over the lunch menu at Cafe Beauregard in New Britain, Connecticut, March 5, 2014, alongside Connecticut Governor Daniel Malloy (2nd R), Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin (2nd L) and Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick (L). AFP PHOTO / Saul LOEB (Photo credit should read SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images)

BOSTON - JANUARY 28: Gov. Deval Patrick delivers his eighth State of the Commonwealth speech after a week's delay due to snow. (Photo by Barry Chin/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - MARCH 5: President Barack Obama arrives at Logan Airport with Governor Deval Patrick as they depart Air Force One in Boston, Mass. on March 5, 2014. (Photo by Jessica Rinaldi/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

BOSTON - MARCH 5: President Barak Obama arrives at Logan Airport with Governor Deval Patrick as they depart Air Force One in Boston, Mass. on March 5, 2014. (Photo by Jessica Rinaldi/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

CAMBRIDGE, MA - MARCH 13: Officials unveil extended MBTA service at Kendall T station in Cambridge in hopes to encourage safe and vibrant late-night culture. Left to right, Mayor Martin Walsh, Governor Deval Patrick speaks, State Transportation Secretary Richard A. Davey, and mascots Red Sox's Wally and the Charlie Card mascot .(Photo by David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

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As one former White House source told Politico, "If you were to poll 100 notable Obama alumni, the only two people who would win that 2020 straw poll right now are [Joe] Biden and Patrick."

While the former vice president is often listed as a top contender in the next presidential race, Patrick appears to face a more uphill battle.

In a USA TODAY/Suffolk University Poll from late December, more than half the Democrats and Independents who were surveyed had never heard of Patrick, but, of those who had, "10% would be excited; 15% against the idea."

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Obama and allies reportedly encouraging ex-Governor Deval ...

(CNN) - Missouri Sen. Claire McCaskill said Tuesday that police officers across the country should be required to wear body cameras in order for their departments to qualify for federal funds.

McCaskill believes that the ubiquity of cameras gives way to incidents in which only part of the story is recorded, seen or understood. So, a body camera on every officer will not only protect citizens against police misconduct, but also protect officers from wrongful accusations.

"Everywhere I go people now have cameras," said McCaskill, a Democrat. "And police officers are now at a disadvantage, because someone can tape the last part of an encounter and not tape the first part of the encounter. And it gives the impression that the police officer has overreacted when they haven't."

McCaskill made the comments at an event in Springfield, Missouri, where she answered questions about the shooting of Michael Brown by Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson, CNN affiliate KOLR reported.

In the wake of the shooting and community outrage to the response from Ferguson police, McCaskill has called for congressional hearings to examine a Defense Department program that allows local police departments to acquire military weaponry.

Already, President Barack Obama has called for a review of programs that allow for the transfer of military weapons to the police.

Section 1208 in the National Defense Authorization Act has allowed the Defense Department to grant military hardware to local law enforcement since 1990. A law enforcement support program, the military's Defense Logistics Agency, was established in 1999 to facilitate law enforcement militarization.

McCaskill said Thursday she hopes the Senate will embrace her body camera proposal and that it will eventually become law.

"I would like to see us say, 'If you want federal funding in your community, you've got to have body cams on your officers,'" she said. "And I think that would go a long way towards solving some of these problems, and it would be a great legacy over this tragedy that's occurred in Ferguson, regardless of what the facts say at the end as to whether or not anyone is criminally culpable."

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President Obama CNN Political Ticker - CNN.com Blogs

The former president (well, actually his office) continues to respond to wedding invitations -- even though he's left the White House. Apparently mail forwarding is one government function that has avoided the DC gridlock.

Yes, it's only a form letter. But these recipients aren't going to let that dim their excitement.

Earlier this week, Brooke Allen tweeted a photo of a response her mother, Liz Whitlow, just received from the Office of Barack and Michelle Obama to say congratulations on her wedding.

Soon, others started sharing photos of similar responses they received. It turns out Obama's office responded to wedding invitations throughout his eight years in office.

Chelsea Roden and her wife, Lisa, sent then-President Obama a handwritten invitation to their wedding in 2016.

"I was really grateful for the work his administration did," Roden told CNN. "When we first started dating in 2011, same-sex marriage wasn't even on the table."

She completely forgot about the invitation she mailed to the White House until she got a response back one month before her wedding.

It read: "Congratulations on your wedding day. May this special time be blessed with love, laughter, and happiness. We wish you all the best as you embark on your journey together, and we hope your bond grows stronger with each passing year."

When Carmen Alvarez-Mendoza got married in 2014, she invited the Obamas as well as Oprah and Ellen DeGeneres. She told CNN she was pleasantly surprised when POTUS and FLOTUS actually responded.

And for all the single ladies out there, it's not just wedding invitations that get an Obama response.

Aubree Spath mailed her high school graduation announcement to the White House and got a lengthy reply.

"It's somewhat magical reading the letter and thinking Obama's proud of you," Spath told CNN. "It really did put the cherry on top of my senior year."

New mom Rachel Newsom sent the Obamas a birth announcement for her daughter, Harlem, in October and got a response welcoming the baby to the world.

Newsom said she wanted to send the announcement before Obama left office. "I was nervous that I might not get a response from the Obama administration," she said. "I wondered if I had waited too late."

It seems that Obama plans to keep up the tradition even though he no longer has the White House letterhead.

Today the former President turns 56.

Go ahead and send him a birthday card and see if he responds.

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Even in retirement, Obama still responds to strangers' wedding invitations - CNN